* Synopsis: This rfc describes changes made to core Koha to enable multiple libraries with potentially overlapping item and patron barcodes to merge their collections and patrons into a single Koha database. * Details: Libraries with overlapping barcodes (items and patrons) currently must rebarcode their collections in order to coexist in a single Koha installation. This RFC outlines proposed modifications to Koha's functionality to allow libraries to merge collections into a single Koha instance, decreasing overall maintenance overhead and giving them access to Koha's resource sharing features. This work encompasses: (1) auto-insertion of institution-code prefixes to inputs on circulation functions and cataloging; (2) addition of system-wide barcode length definitions; (3) extension of autobarcode calculation to use ranges defined by those prefixes and string lengths; (4) addition of jacket-sleeve barcode image printing, allowing materials to circulate between libraries. Two collections with overlapping barcode sets may be merged into a single Koha database by defining a system-wide barcode length and a branch-level prefix. It is assumed that the incoming data will be prefixed and padded prior to import so that the imported items & patrons fit this schema. When a patron or item barcode is scanned that is shorter than the defined system lengths (system preferences), Koha will add the prefix and pad as necessary based on the transaction branch location. If a scanned barcode is equal to or greater than the system-wide length, Koha will make no modifications. This allows sites to engage in long-term rebarcoding projects, eventually allowing them to turn off this feature. Since Koha must know the transaction location in order to determine which item is scanned, transfers between libraries cannot be allowed without affixing a temporary full-length barcode to an item. The existing hold-transfer slip is extended to allow printing of the full system barcode on a jacket sleeve, thus allowing materials to circulate between different libraries. The sleeve is only required for items with 'short' barcodes. Scanners work as expected within a local library, scanning the local short barcode and translating it to the prefixed, full-length system barcode. Full text at: http://wiki.koha.org/doku.php?id=en:development:rfcs3.2:rfc32_barcode_prefix... Comments welcome. -- Ryan Higgins LibLime * Open-Source Solutions for Libraries Featuring KohaZOOM ILS 888-564-2457 x704