What is stack maintenance?
Stack maintenance is a general term for the work done in the stacks. All of the work that takes place in the stacks is intended for the betterment of the library and the patrons. When the stacks are organized in an orderly fashion it allows patrons and librarians to easily find what they are searching for. A tidy shelf also ensures an aesthetic appeal. If the library looks good and the books are easy to find, patrons will return.
Shelving
Shelving a book is simply putting an item back where it belongs using the LCC system.
Please note that if an item has REF. marked in front of the call number, it belongs in the reference areas of the music library. (Either in the main reading room around the walls or at the very beginning of the scores.) Reference books do not generally circulate to patrons (with the exception of UR faculty members) and hence, shouldn't be included in the stacks with circulating items. This is a common mix up, but also be mindful of items that might be on display, miniature scores and oversized items.
When you find the correct spot for the item you are shelving, double check the shelf order. Sometimes items on the shelf are out of order and if we can catch problems before a whole shelf needs to be fixed, it's happier for EVERYONE.
An item that is mis-shelved is LOST, to all intents and purposes, which means it cannot be used by patrons.
Shelf Reading
Shelf reading means checking to be sure that items are shelved in the correct order, aka in the right call number order. This is a VERY IMPORTANT TASK!
If things are out of place it makes it harder for patrons and staff to find materials. Everyone is expected to complete 15 minutes of shelf reading per shift. Record with your name, time and date, and the last call number that you read on the sheet in Schedule Notebook. Order for shelf reading will be posted.
Edging
Edging is a simple part of stack maintenance. Pull books close to the edge of a shelf to even out the row.
This helps patrons (and shelvers) easily see an item's call number and/or title.
It's also a very good idea to check for books that may have been accidentally pushed behind rows.
When edging, be sure to pull the book from its spine or from farther back on the top of the book. Quickly pulling at the top spine edge of the book can damage it. Obviously, we want to keep our materials in good condition for as long as possible!
Here is an example of a shelf with books neatly arranged near the edge of the shelf:
