Keep a clear record of every library loan
During a busy library period, several students may borrow or return books within a few minutes. A clear record helps the librarian check which copy went to each student and which books are still due.
InstiKit records library loans against student and employee records. Each transaction includes the borrower, book copies, issue date, due date, and any remarks staff need to keep.
Issue available copies to students and employees
Select the borrower and add the copies being issued. A single transaction can contain more than one book, so a teacher borrowing several reference books can have them recorded together.
The system checks that a selected copy is not already issued on another loan or marked on hold. It also checks that the due date is on or after the issue date.
Each transaction receives a reference number, making it easier to find the record when the borrower returns.
Record returns one book at a time
Books from the same loan do not always come back together. Staff can close each copy's loan separately by entering its copy number, return date, return status, condition, and remarks.
For example, a student who borrowed two books may return one this week and the other later. The transaction remains partially returned until all its copies have been dealt with.
The transaction list can be filtered by issued, returned, or partially returned status. Issue date and due date filters help the librarian review a particular period and follow up on outstanding loans.
Handle damaged and lost books
When a loan is closed as damaged or lost, the copy receives the matching hold status. This prevents it from being issued again while that status remains in place.
The return record keeps the condition and remarks, giving staff a place to explain the situation. For instance, a librarian can note damage to a book's cover when recording its return.
Add student library charges when needed
Schools can enter a library charge while closing a student's loan. The amount is entered by staff according to the school's policy, such as an agreed charge for a lost book.
The library charge fee head must be configured before a positive charge can be added. Once recorded, the charge is added to the student's fees and linked to the library transaction.
This charge process applies to student loans. Employee book loans are supported, but charges through this return process are limited to students.