The Game of Library Tetris: Using a Shelf Address System

The Game of Library Tetris: Using a Shelf Address System

Floor 2

Having to constantly shift materials to make space while maintaining call number order can be challenging and time consuming, particularly when needing to move materials quickly. Most of the library literature around alternative shelving systems is focused on user experience and resource discoverability. A shelf address system makes it easier for library professionals to quickly organize and locate items, making it an ideal choice for a staff only area. Using a shelf based address system allows quick insertion of materials into any available shelf space without worrying about call number order, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, some of which can have unfortunate results. In this session we’ll weigh the pros/cons of a shelf based address system, explain our positive and negative experiences using this system at our library, and help you learn from our mistakes so that you can succeed if implementing this type of shelving system. The benefits far outweigh the pitfalls, but we’ll use our lessons learned from ongoing practical use of this system so that you will be better prepared to make this system a success at your library. We’re still cleaning up some of our mistakes, but hopefully you won’t have to! You’ll leave:

• Understanding what a shelf based address system is, how it works, and when to consider using one
• The steps to take before transitioning to a shelf address system to ensure success
• Where consistencies in process need to happen to maintain long term success
• Practical fixes for common errors and areas of concern