Brunel University Library Circulation Control System

Abstract

This article concentrates on the distinctive features of a circulation control system designed to achieve simplicity of procedure at the final user/system interface. The system has been operating off‐line since September 1972, but the design of the data file structures also permits on‐line interrogation. Methods of book and borrower numbering, and the handling of multiple‐copy reservations are described. Flexible day‐to‐day control of processing and outputs required is exercised by the library by the input of parameter cards. Printout has been reduced to a minimum, all notices to borrowers are printed on a single pre‐printed form, and as much use as possible is made of information already recorded manually. The system seeks to achieve automation of data control without the proliferation of data records which a computer system can tend to encourage.