Circle the destination Library Number ONLY with a marker. Dark ink is best. If applicable, check the Branch or Campus Library (see sample at left). Attach Routing Slips to the outside of the item securely by following these steps: Fold the slip back on the dotted line above "Northeast Region." Insert the top part of the slip under the front cover of the item. Place rubber band(s) around the item to secure label. When sending fragile items, such as CD's and DVD's, be sure to use a padded envelope or some type of protective packaging. Too often these items are damaged due to inadequate packaging.  Sending CASH through the delivery system is NOT permitted. Our agreement with Eastern Connection has no provision for shipping money or other valuables. Our agreement is limited to library materials and correspondence. Neither NMRLS nor Eastern Connection can take responsibility for any cash or other valuables that are missing from delivery shipments. Please do NOT send cash or valuables via delivery. Please do not ever use staples or tape directly onto an item. Sending correspondence in #10 envelopes is not recommended. Envelopes should be at least 10 x 13 in size.

Packaging Best Practices

1. The most effective way to transport DVD's and CD's is in soft Jewel cases. Made of a flexible plastic, they have minimal breakage and don't crack. This may require a reworking of cataloging procedures for these items. (vendor information is provided)
2. If soft cases are cost prohibitive, all A-V materials should at a minimum, be shipped in bubble-filled envelopes (fiber-filled create too much of a mess). Securing routing labels with tape and rubber bands.
3. Sending multiple items can be done in cardboard carriers meant for this purpose. Mark clearly owning library's name so that the investment of such a product returns to the appropriate library once items are returned. (vendor information provided)
4. Multiple packages of A-V materials should not exceed 5" in width. They become too difficult for the sorters and drivers to handle.
5. Sending magazines or books in delicate condition should be sent in appropriate sized manila envelops.
6. All approved labels for routing items should be placed consistently on the exterior of the items or its packaging with double rubber bands, when necessary, to keep the label visible and secure.
7. For all packaged items, once emptied and ready for re-use, make sure old labels and markings are removed, thus not confusing future transits.

Presorted Bins Instructions

Libraries that ship enough items daily to fill an entire bin to other libraries are encouraged to presort. Presorting eliminates the need to label individual items for delivery and allows the opportunity to pack books and media carefully to avoid damage. Labeling the bins properly is key to successful shipping.

Remove all outside labels from presorted bins upon receipt. This step removes the possibility of erroneous shipments based on "old" labels.

Each presorted bin requires three steps (see illustrations at LINK). We ask that libraries end the practice of taping a label to the side of any bin. This practice has led to the misdirection of bins because libraries did not remove them and sorters believed they were presorted.

1. Tape a label to the top of the bin clearly indicating the destination by number and name.

   Use a standard label, e.g.,

   

   Or, create a label for presorted bin destinations:
   

   Presorted - ship to: 10 Chelmsford From: Burlington

2. Insert a label on the side to assist drivers in identification. (Use a preprinted routing slip and circle the number of the destination library.)

   Use a standard label:

   

   Or, create a label for presorted bin destinations:
   

   Presorted - ship to: 10 Chelmsford From: Burlington

3. Seal the bin closed with a cable tie.

   Cable ties are available at home stores and elsewhere. Contact NMRLS to participate in our group purchase. We suggest a visible color other than red to enhance recognition.

   

Statewide Delivery Committee Report

Foot notes to the State Report:

Page 7/11, Labeling and Packaging

Item 3. Because locally we recommend recycling packaging material until condition is not suitable, the NMRLS committee recommends using the bottom of routing slips for special instructions, ie. Attention to person or department.

Item 7. NMRLS committee recommends always using two rubber bands to secure loose labels and keeping items closed.

Item 8. NMRLS committee recommends a more specific dimension, limiting bundled items not to exceed 5 inches in maximum width, rather than refer to the size of an adult hand.

Questions about Delivery? Please contact NMRLS Office.