A Quick, Accurate, and Free-of-Cost Inventory and Shelf-Reading Solution

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This article presents a solution that was used at Notre Dame University–Louaize (NDU) Library, Lebanon, to conduct efficient, accurate, and low-cost inventory and shelf reading. By exporting catalog records into an Excel spreadsheet and using nested formulas to compare records exported from the online library system against the books existing on the shelves, the inventory was successfully completed in a manageable time period. This simple solution, using a laptop and a handheld bar code reader, significantly reduced the number of staff and the amount of time required to perform the inventory. It also greatly reduced human error and inconsistencies faced in previously conducted inventories while helping to maintain staff concentration and enthusiasm for the project.