Thanks to everyone who gave me ideas about handling camera equipment
efficiently. Many asked that I post a hit, so here goes:
Even though every piece of equipment we own is listed in our Follett
database, I don't use the Follett system for checkout. I created a binder
with a page for each day and each piece of equipment is listed, along with a
space for the signature of the person checking in or checking out the item.
Two signatures are required - mine and the person checking out the
equipment.
To solve the problem with missing items within each piece of equipment, our
tech person used the digital camera to take a picture of each item that goes
with the piece of equipment. So, for example, if the item is a video camera,
the camera and each cable, battery case, etc. is shown in the photo. Under
the photo is a list of each item in the photo. The photo is then put in the
case with the camera or projector or other item. When the piece of equipment
is returned, I don't check it back in until I've made sure that each item is
accounted for. Is it a pain? Yes, but people tend to be very irresponsible
when it comes to returning equipment.
Here is what we do at the college where I work part time .... when you check
out the camera, you sign that it has all its parts. When it is returned, it
has to be physically checked in by the circ desk. Each camera has an index
card listing what should be there .... the index card has a number that
corresponds to a number on the camera. Example 1A1 and then a list of what
should be there....So the camera goes out, person checks it. Camera comes
in, circ desk confirms it is in same condition. Computer is ignorant...
A couple of suggestions: you could bar code everything and when they
are checked out, print out what the patron is responsible for. Around
cords, I have put a bar code on tape, folded it over the cord and bar
code. I have also tied all cords with a stretch cord to keep them
together. As soon as the unit is turned it, I check everything in and
if anything is missing, contact the patron right away with a new print
out of what is still owed.
I had the same problem and what works for me is to list all the
equipment, including blank tapes, have the borrower sign and date it,
and make a copy for them. I was amazed when more 'parts' started coming
back with the cameras after that, especially if they only used one of
two tapes provided.
I use Athena, but the trick is keeping sets of stuff (chargers, cords,
etc.) in ziploc baggies attached to the camera strap with a cable tie or
rubber band or something. I barcode the baggies and list all the items in
it in my catalog (I have an "equipment" collection in my database for
cameras, VCRs, overhead projectors, CD players, etc.) When an item comes
back in I check everything AND immediately go visit the teacher, baggie in
hand, if anything's not where it's supposed to be.
I have the digital cameras in cases with instructions and add ons in a side
pocket. I also keep the box in which I keep all nonessential parts. My
teachers haven't gotten into fancy presentations with lots of cords, etc.
You could check out only essential parts they need and keep the rest in the
library.
I purchased a case that the camera and accessories would fit into, barcoded
the equipment case, put a list of everything in the case even the
instruction book. When the camera is checked out they take the entire case
and the note of contents lets them know what needs to be returned
We have two cameras. Next to the checkout book (we
found it easier than using the computer to checkout)
we have a list of everything that goes with each
camera. When the item is checked in, we look at that
time to make sure that all is there.
We don't loan the parts, just the camera. We do loan the case that the
camera came in - if it did. I have found that if they don't need it, don't
give it to them, because if I do it won't come back. The equipment is
entered into our online circulation system.
What does go out overnight requires a signed permission slip listing what
was borrowed. If all the items are not returned, nothing else may be
borrowed. e have a system that seems to work pretty well. We bought (from
the dollar
store) small plastic baskets. We store and check out equipment, cords,
accessories, directions---everything that goes with that piece of
equipment---in that basket. We make a label for the basket. On it we place
the barcode, list all the contents and any special instructions. The entire
basket must go when the equipment is checked out, no leaving the cords,
adaptors or even user guides for us to keep up with. We check the contents
upon return. If anything is missing, the person responsible is expected to
go
find it before checking in the basket.
Donna Wenzel
Media Specialist
La Vista Junior High
7900 Edgewood Blvd
La Vista, NE 68128
dwenzel@paplv.esu3.org
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