Libraries that are engaged in active weeding are scanning shelves on a regular basis want to ensure that the collection is as accurate as possible for their patrons. We propose enhancing the inventory module so that it can provide a more interactive experience for librarians and help streamline the inventory process.

Currently, staff scan a number of item’s barcode on a shelf, in a collection and upload that file of scanned barcodes into Koha. Koha comes back with info about items with non-standard statuses, and missing/lost statuses, etc. We propose that the item data be presented to staff as they scan the barcodes, right there at the shelf!!! (For example, staff conducts the inventory with a laptop plus scanner on a cart).

Work to be done:

• Develop a new interface for ‘Interactive inventory’
• To begin, the library will scan a book and this item’s callnumber will be considered the ‘starting’ place.
• An option would be created to allow users to provide a manual starting callnumber.
• Staff could also select options to use Collection code or shelving location to determine upcoming/expected next books
• Koha would display a preview upcoming books to allow librarian to visually scan shelf for next item if out of order
• The above work will require an API route to fetch books in shelf order given configuration settings (collection/location)

As the librarian scans items on the shelf,
1. Automatically mark an expected book(s) as ‘Missing’ when it is not scanned in the planned order
2. Unmark missing a book that is found out of order on the shelf, and provide feedback to the user that it should be reshelved