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Item Maintenance - Discard or Delete?

When removing items from the catalog, you must decide whether to Discard or Delete the record. This guide compares the two processes and the results of each.


Method 1: Discarding Items

Discarding is a "soft delete" process. The item remains in the system temporarily but is hidden from the public catalog.

  1. From the CIRC Toolbar, click on the Checkout wizard.
  2. Enter the special discard user account for your library (e.g., SEODISCARD) as the User ID.
    WorkFlows checkout screen with SEODISCARD entered in the User ID field
  3. Scan the item(s). Depending on your library's configuration, these items will be permanently removed from the system during a daily or monthly maintenance cycle.
System Result: Once checked out to the Discard user, the item is shadowed (hidden) in the Online Catalog, and its location in WorkFlows changes to DISCARD.
Note: You may need to use an override if there are active holds associated with the item.

Method 2: Deleting Items

Deleting is an immediate, permanent action. It is recommended for items that must be removed from the database instantly.

  1. From the TECH Toolbar, click on the Delete Title, Call Numbers or Items wizard.
  2. Scan the Item ID of the item to be deleted.
    The Delete Title, Call Numbers or Items wizard search screen
  3. Select the checkmark box beside the item and click Delete.
    Selecting the item in the list and clicking the Delete button

Potential Warning Messages

During the delete process, you may encounter the following system prompts. In most cases, you should click Yes to continue:

  • Last Copy on Record: If this is the final copy, WorkFlows will ask to remove the title and call number completely to maintain data integrity.
    System message: The item you are deleting is the last item for this call number. Do you want to delete the call number and title?
  • Charge History: If the item has a circulation history, the system will confirm if you want to proceed.
    System message: This item has charge history. Delete anyway?
  • Outstanding Bills: If there are bills on the item, deleting the item will not remove the bill from the user's account.
    System message: This item has associated bills. Delete anyway?
Restriction: Items that are currently checked out, marked as lost, or have active holds cannot be removed using the Delete wizard.

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