Definitions
Return item means removing it from a borrower's account.
Return Items
Be sure you are logged in to the appropriate desk you are working at in Alma. Desk selection is in the upper right-hand corner. Scanning items in at the wrong desk will create errors.
When returning items, go to Fulfillment > Return Items in Alma
Check to make sure all pieces are there before you scan the barcode (disks are in the case, etc). Scan the barcode into the 'Scan item barcode' field. The item will appear in the list below as you scan them in. Keep your eyes on the screen and make note of any piece counts you have to confirm. If you need to change the return date, you can do so by clicking on the calendar widget in the 'Override return date and time' field before scanning.
Damaged and/or Incomplete Returns
Returned items that show signs of damage should not be checked in. Give the damaged item to a supervisor.
Many non-book items (CDs, DVDs, equipment, kits, maps, musical scores, etc.) will be comprised of multiple pieces. Always check to make sure that the item is fully accounted for and all pieces are present. For laptops and MacBooks, a pre-check in process is required assuring that the equipment is operational. THIS NEEDS TO BE DONE IN THE PRESENCE OF THE BORROWER.
When checking out or returning a DVD, open the case to ensure that the DVD is inside and not damaged. Items returned in an incomplete state should not be discharged. Give to a supervisor.
The Most Basic Transaction
To return items, follow the steps below:
Whenever checking in or checking out library materials, always watch the screen. Listening for beeps produced by a barcode scanner can be very misleading for determining whether or not an item has been discharged. Only items which display in the “Loans of this session” list have been returned.
Whenever unsure about the status of a returned item, it never hurts to check it in again.
- Go to Fullfillment -> Return Items
- With the cursor in the 'scan item barcode' field, scan the barcode
- Verify that the item has appeared in the list of items
Routing Other items
Books discharged at our desk belonging to Center for Teaching and Family Resource Center
are required to be put into a departmental envelope and put in CAMPUS MAIL.
Library Messengers do not deliver to these locations and are delivered via Station B.
Center for Teaching Family Resource Center
1114 19th Ave. South Children’s Hospital, 2nd Floor
Nashville, TN 37212 2200 Children’s Way, Suite 2125
Nashville, TN 37232-9200
If you discharge one of these books, please give to the Supervisor on Desk and they will package up
the book(s) for Station B pickup.
