Circulation rules

The circulation rules for each library are controlled by the data in the circulation map.   The circulation map is a part of the circulation policies matches the User Profile with the Item Type to determine the loan period and billing structure for the circulation transaction. 

The circulation rule consists of the loan period, fine rate, and maximum fine.  An example is 21D-10D-5M for a 21 day loan, $.10 fine, and a $5 maximum fine.

For each circulation transaction the software uses the circulation map, reading it from the bottom to the top. The software uses the first rule that fits to complete the circulation transaction. There is a section in the circulation map for each library. There is a rule for most item types whether or not a library actually owns any of that kind of itme.  The rule will be used if that type of item comes from another library to fill a hold.

The special rules for Deposit, Teacher, etc. cards are at the bottom of the circulation map.   These rules apply to any user with that profile regardless of what library is being used.

 

Circulation map from the Symphony policy file

The Symphony Circulation Map controls the checkout, fine rate, and maximum fine for the circulation of material. At checkout, the table is read from the bottom up until a rule is found the matches the user's PROFILE with the ITEM TYPE being checked out at that LIBRARY.

Circulation Rules list the following values, in order: "Days Checked Out - Fine Rate - Max Overdue Fine". For example, "14D-10D-5M" indicates "14 Day Checkout - $0.10 per day fine - $5.00 Max Overdue".

The Circulation Map can be located as an Excel file here: Circulation Map