Greetings Libraries on Delivery Service, On 12/23/05, NMRLS will be mailing out packets of delivery information, including master copies of the new labels. The new labels include the branch libraries for clear indication of a branch item. However, if you have already copied the slips that were originally presented in the December 2005/January 2006 NMRLS Newsletter article, that’s OK, and you may use them! There may be more tweaking as we go along, and work with the new system. Please be sure to read the Online Guide to Delivery Services, especially the new labeling & Packaging Instructions at http://www.nmrls.org/delivery/instruct.shtml. The "Guide" has been completely updated! Jaclyn White, NMRLS Delivery Committee Chairperson Director, Topsfield Town Library 978-887-1528 jwhite@mvlc.org

We have been getting lots of feedback and questions, so here are some FAQ’s and Answers:

Q. Can we use the slips now?
A. No, wait until Tuesday, Jan.3, 2006. Eastern Connection needs to re-arrange their sorting areas for the numerical system, and we will be sending out information packets.

Q. How do we select the destination library?
A. You indicate where the item is going to by circling the number that coincides with the library name (see sample under Labeling & Packaging Instructions. Some have asked if using a highlighter is acceptable. Eastern Connection said that a highlighter is fine as long as it is easy to read.

Q. What about labels for sending out of our region?
A. These new labels are just for libraries in our Northeast Region. Continue to use the “old” labels for other regions; they have not changed their systems: S (Southeast), C (Central), M (Metrowest), B (Boston), W, W-CLGS, W-HILC (Western). Please check the Statewide Directory if you need to know which label to use. labels are available at: http://www.nmrls.org/delivery/label.shtml

Q. Can we print the new labels in colors?
A. Please use White. The clearest way to read is black on white.

Q: We prefer to continue to use our current labeling set up with the pre-printed labels. Can we do this with the new system?
A: Yes, simply make master templates for each library by circling the number on a slip and then photocopying them.

Q. What color marker shall we use?
A. A dark-ish color for circling would be best.

Q. What If we circle the slip while it is on the book, and it causes the marker to bleed through to the cover of a book?
A. Either use bleed-free markers, or do not circle while on the book.