Last week I asked listmembers how they deal with the CD-ROM's
and diskettes that frequently accompany legal books (storage,
cataloging, security, etc.). Thanks to all of you who responded!
Here is a summary of responses:
1. Only one of my respondents is in a public or academic library
*and* keeps disks with books. Almost all of those working in
private/firm libraries keep disks with books.
2. The most popular option in dealing with disks is to store them in
a locked container at the circulation desk, and indicate on the book
where the disks may be found (color-coded labels on the books
appear to be the most popular option). Most libraries organize
these disks by call number, but a few organize them by title.
3. Two librarians stated that they keep the originals of disks in
storage and make copies available at the desk or attached to the
book. This policy was instituted because of theft of disks and/or
disks coming back erased or damaged after being checked out.
4. One librarian reported that disks are available from the
Circulation Desk; however, they are not allowed to leave the library.
They have all necessary hardware and software available to use the
disks in the library.
5. Two librarians reported that disks are kept separately in librarian
offices, and are retrieved by library staff on request.
6. One librarian also keeps an updated intranet page listing all
books with CD-ROM's and diskettes available (in addition to spine
labels indicating the same).
Drawbacks of keeping disks on reserve/at the Circ Desk:
-labor intensive (labeling books & disks separately, etc.)
-large, unwieldy storage cabinets take up space
-library staff must be trained to recognize books that have
accompanying disks and remember to offer them to patrons
Advantages of keeping disks on reserve/at the Circ Desk:
-multiple users (one person checks out book, another person
checks out disk)
-cuts down significantly on theft, accidental loss, & damage
Thanks again!
Sibyl Marshall
Assistant Professor and Reference Librarian
University of Tennessee College of Law Library
1505 W. Cumberland Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37996-1800
PH (865) 974-5906
FAX (865) 974-6571
marshall@libra.law.utk.edu
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