need help creating a database for a school library in msa

[shoveys]

I have basic knowledge using access and im trying to help my school get some
kind of database set up for checking in and out books. I need something
basic that will:

1) allow me to enter the books that we have in the library to keep track of
them
2) make some sort of database where i can enter in when the book is checked
out and by whom and then check it back in
3)allow me to keep some sort of running record of the book being checked out
and in and by whom instead of overwriting each individual record every time
the book gets rechecked out.


Any assistance with this would be greatly appreciated

 

[Jeff Boyce]

You did say "any assistance"...

Have you searched on-line for templates for a lending library application?

Since most of the folks here are volunteering their time, you'll probably
get more responses if you describe what you've done, rather than listing
your system requirements.

--
Regards

Jeff Boyce
www.InformationFutures.net

Microsoft Office/Access MVP


Microsoft IT Academy Program Mentor
http://microsoftitacademy.com/

 

[Jason Lepack]

Jeff is right. It's usually easier to get something if you give
something.

However, in this case I have put together a database like this before,
here is how I did it.

Books: (Info about books)
isbn - PK
title
author
etc.

Borrowers: (People who borrow the books)
library_card_number - PK
name
address
etc

Current_Loan:
library_card_number
isbn - PK
date_out

Loan_History:
library_card_number
isbn
date_out
date_in

Whenever a book is checked out, create a record in Current_Loan.
Whenever a book is checked in, delete the corresponding record in
Current_Loan and create a record in Loan_History.

You may need to come up with something slightly different if you have
multiple copies of books (a barcode identifier for each book maybe)

Cheers,
Jason Lepack

 

[Fred Boer]

Dear shoveys:

Creating a library application in Access can be a challenge, depending on
the level of complexity you need. There are sources for library software
that might do the job for you. There are professional quality low-cost
library programs available and even freeware. Considering how much time it
might take to create your own, you might be better off using something
pre-built.

A quick Google search reveals many dozens of vendors selling a wide variety
of library management software. For example, you might look at the
following:
http://directory.google.com/Top/Reference/Libraries/Library_and_Information_Science/Software/

Or, you can find shareware library systems as well, with a search at
www.tucows.com, or even a Google search for "free library software".

You might also be interested in a small library application which I have
created using Access. It includes a circulation system and an online
catalogue. You can check it out at the website in my signature.

Good luck!

Fred Boer - Amateur Access Enthusiast
Interests: Library software / Z39.50 / Web Services
Freeware Small Library Application available here:
http://www3.sympatico.ca/lornarourke/