Not only does it involve a number of different files and databases, but it can also involve Circulation, Acquisitions and the bibliographers in addition to Cataloging. Therefore close attention to documented procedures is essential at all times. The first step in performing withdrawals is to determine the nature of the withdrawal. Each procedure is dealt with in turn, including a summary of actions taken by other sections. Circulation staff will fill out a search slip when a patron or staff member reports an item cannot be found on the shelf.
Circulation performs several searches over a period of up to six months.
Circulation will make a final search about six months later. The printouts are then forwarded to Acquisitions. Items unavailable or requiring a decision on an OP search are referred back to Collection Development for a final decision. Refer any serials record found to the Serials Cataloger. Determine if the item missing is the last copy or volume owned.