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Getting Started – Libib’s Custom Barcodes

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Libib’s custom barcodes are a Pro feature.

For each copy of an item, Libib automatically generates a custom SKU barcode.

For each patron, Libib also automatically generates a custom SKU barcode.

It is highly recommended that if you are going to use custom barcodes, that you use the Libib generated barcode numbers. Adding your own barcode numbers may not work with our system and we will not be able to provide support!

SKU

Our SKU barcode always contains 12 digits, plus 1 checksum digit calculated using a Modulo 10 at the end for a total of 13 digits. Libib’s SKU barcode numbers follow a very specific pattern:

Libib item barcodes are always prefixed by 201, start from 1 and include a checksum.
Libib patron barcodes are always prefixed by 202, start from 1 and include a checksum.

A checksum is just a number that is used in the specs to verify that the rest of the barcode is valid.

Libib automatically takes care of all of this for you, for example:

Item Added Prefix Padded # Checksum SKU Barcode #
1 201 000000001 4 2010000000014
2 201 000000002 1 2010000000021
3 201 000000003 8 2010000000038
201
Patron Added Prefix Padded # Checksum SKU Barcode #
1 202 000000001 3 2020000000013
2 202 000000002 0 2020000000020
3 202 000000003 7 2020000000037
202
Figure A

Figure A shows an item with 3 copies. When the “Copies” tab is selected, the barcodes are revealed.


Figure B

Figure B is the patron edit page with the barcode shown in the form.

Notice that to edit these barcodes you must click on the lock icon near the field; this is to prevent accidental corruption or collisions. The barcodes must be in the correct format for Libib to guarantee recognition. Only edit these if you know exactly what you’re doing.

Export

To export item barcodes log on to libib.com and navigate to:
Settings > Collections > Export Barcodes

To export patron barcodes, log on to libib.com and navigate to:
Settings > Collections > Export Patrons

These exports will output the barcode number, along with some additional metadata. However the actual barcode symbol is not created. That must be done either with Libib’s barcode generator, through a professional printer, or using a service like Avery Online. Read the “Print” section below for more information.

Print

Option 1 – Preferred

Libib offers a simple QR barcode label generator as part of the website, which works primarily with labels compatible with Avery® templates.

If you wish to use this feature, please take a look at the barcode instructions page.

Option 2

If you’re needing more control over your layout, and wish instead to print using Avery’s® online software (or any other barcode software), you can export your barcodes and follow the video tutorial here:

Option 3

We also have a very basic printable sets of supported barcodes 1-9000 you can download below. These are designed for Avery 5160 labels. These allow you to pre-print and then apply to items as you add them to your library.

Updated on November 4, 2022
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