Talis Alto (ESS) to Alma Data Delivery and Migration Guide
Migration Overview
- A step-by-step guide to filling out the Talis Alto (ESS) Migration Form.
- An explanation of the data files expected, the fields in those files, as well as migration rules for Talis Alto to Alma which do not require any customer input.
Data Files:
- Extract the relevant data elements from Talis Alto into flat files (customer responsibility).
- Validate the extracted flat files using Ex Libris’ Migration File Validation Tool. Depending on the size of the extracts, customers may choose to validate a small sub-set of data to ensure that the data format is valid, including the header and field information, prior to validating the entire extract.
- Also using the Migration File Validation Tool, indicate which fields from Talis Alto map to Ex Libris expected fields (customer responsibility). The files and field names below can be used as a reference during this process.
- Confirm that the number of records in each file, as determined by the Migration File Validation Tool, matches the number of records exported from Alto Talis.
- Once the files are validated and the record counts are confirmed, upload the files to Ex Libris’ secure file server, using the Migration File Validation Tool and the customer MFT credentials.
- Transform the data elements, based on the Field Mapping as indicated in the Migration File Validation Tool, into an intermediate conversion XML format (Ex Libris responsibility).
- Load the transformed data into Alma (Ex Libris responsibility).
For all files, the maximum file size is 2GB. Prepare the data files in the exact format as specified in Requested Files from Talis with the naming conventions as described there.
Migration Form:
Complete the Talis Alto (ESS) Migration Form.xlsm prior to the actual delivery of the data, using the information in the Talis Alto (ESS) to Alma Migration Guide. The lead time depends on your project schedule. Validate the Migration Form using the online ILS Migration Form Validation Tool, and download the validated Migration Form, which shows the validation report on the Report tab. Send the validated Migration Form to your Ex Libris Project Manager.
Ex Libris migrates your acquisitions data only if this service is purchased by your institution and is stipulated in your contract with Ex Libris.
Recommendations for Using this Guide
- Inventory
- Fulfillment
- Acquisitions
- Physical to Electronic
- Field Explanations - File delivery requirements and explanations of individual fields where relevant, to be used when filling out the Field Mapping Form.
- Questionnaire Tab – Instructions for individual questions asked on the Questionnaire tab of the Migration Form.
- Individual Tabs – Instructions for how to fill in individual tabs on the migration form.
- Further Explanation – Explanations of migration processes that need more explanation and/or do not need customer input.
Related Documentation
- This document is intended to complement the Talis (Alto Capita) Migration Form - an Excel spreadsheet that is read by the migration programs. It provides further information regarding the migration process and the steps required for migration to Alma.
- Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of Alma and Talis key concepts and architecture, and the requirements (including the migration-related approach) described in Getting Ready for Alma and Discovery Implementation, as well as the Electronic Resource Handling Approach in Alma Migration document.
- It is recommended that you view the Introduction to the Alma Configuration Process video session before completing your migration form, as the mapping and migration of libraries and locations have implications for subsequent configurations.
Using the Migration Form Validation Tool
Requested Files from Talis
Inventory
- Bibliographic records – Bibliographic records are expected in MARC format, in UTF-8 or MARC8 encoding.
- Holdings records – Alma requires MARC Holdings records. These are generated upon conversion from Item and Serial Holdings records provided from Talis (since Talis does not have MARC holdings records). Location and call number information is generated from Item records first, or from serial holdings records if no item records exist for the location for a particular bibliographic record. The Library Has statement from the Serial Holdings extract is used to generate 866 (summary holdings statement) fields.
- Physical Inventory (item) records – Alma stores physical Inventory records that are generated from Talis Item and Checkin (issue) records. Alma preserves links between Bibliographic records that share a common item (boundwiths) on conversion.
- Electronic Resources (E-Resources) – Most non-Alma ILS systems store records for both physical and electronic items in the same format, which is a physical format. Alma has different record formats for electronic and physical items. Provide a list of bibliographic records that represent electronic materials so they can be converted to electronic format after migration to Alma. The possible types of electronic resources are packages, databases, and portfolios.
Bibliographic Records
- Australian customers will have ALL Bibs marked for Libraries of Australia Publish, in case relevant.
- OCLC records (records with an 035 |a with an OCLC-official prefix) will be marked for OCLC publish, in case relevant.
- The LDR position 9 (Character coding scheme) is set to a indicating Unicode.
Suppressed Records
Boundwiths (Bound Volumes)
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
MASTER_WORK_ID |
bib record ID |
CHILD_WORK_IDS |
repeatable, separated by semicolons |
Holdings
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
HOLDINGS_ID |
mandatory, not repeatable. The unique key for the holding record. |
LOCATION_ID |
mandatory, not repeatable. Use in Alma Location tab of Migration Form, first level of location (like the Alma Library) |
WORK_ID |
mandatory, not repeatable. This is the Bib key. Should match 001 of related bib record. |
SEQUENCE_ID |
not repeatable. Use in Alma Location tab of Migration Form, second level of location (like the Alma Location) |
SIZE_ID |
not repeatable. Used with CLASS_NUMBER and SUFFIX to generate the call number in the 852 of the new holding record: $k SIZE_ID $h CLASS_NUMBER $i SUFFIX |
CLASS_NUMBER |
not repeatable. See SIZE_ID |
SUFFIX |
not repeatable. See SIZE_ID |
CLASS_TYPE |
not repeatable. Use in Shelving Scheme tab of Migration Form |
HOLDINGS_NOTE |
repeatable |
Note Name | Example Local Field |
---|---|
PUBLIC_NOTE (for 852 $z in holdings record) |
GENERAL_NOTE |
PUBLIC_NOTE |
DESCRIPTIVE_NOTE |
PUBLIC_NOTE |
WANTS_NOTE |
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE (for 852 $x in holdings record) |
|
Holdings From a Bib Tag (Summary Holdings Statements)
Expected Field Name | Value | Notes |
---|---|---|
SUMM_TAG |
|
Five characters; tag+2 indicators. May use # as wildcard, for example, 866## or 86#3#. Wildcard allowed for third digit and indicators but not first two digits. To indicate a space character, use b, for example 866b1. |
SUMM_SUBFIELDS |
|
Multiple subfields allowed, e.g. abz. May use # to indicate all subfields. |
SUMM_CALLNO |
|
Textual call number to be used in all newly generated holdings records if desired. |
SUMM_LIB_SUBF |
|
Subfield which contains the library code in Talis format; typically found in LOCATION_ID. Include only a subfield code. This should be a subfield of the SUMM_TAG. Do not include a different tag (such as the item tag). |
SUMM_LOC_SUBF |
|
Subfield that contains the location code in Talis format; typically found in SEQUENCE_ID. Include only a subfield code. This should be a subfield of the SUMM_TAG. Do not include a different tag (such as the item tag). |
SUMM_LIB_CODE |
|
If SUMM_LIB_SUBF not provided or not found, the Alma Library Code that will be used instead. This code must be present in Column A of the Alma Library tab of the migration form. |
SUMM_LOC_CODE |
|
If SUMM_LOC_SUBF is not provided or not found, the Alma library code is used instead. This code must be present in Column D of the Alma Location tab of the migration form. |
SUMM_PUBLIC_NOTE_SUBF |
|
Public note, will be placed in 852 $z of the generated holding record |
SUMM_NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_SUBF |
|
Non-public note, will be placed in 852 $x of the generated holding record |
Items
Expected Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
ITEM_ID |
mandatory. Unique numeric key for item records. |
BARCODE |
unique, but can be left blank. |
TYPE |
not repeatable; e.g. normal loan. Use in Item Type map in Migration form |
STATUS |
not repeatable; e.g. on order or missing. Use in Item Base Status map in Migration form |
WORK_ID |
mandatory; This is the related bib key; matches 001 in bib |
SITE_ID |
mandatory; use Alma Location map of the Migration form, as the first level of location (similar to Alma Library) |
DESC_NOTE |
alphanumeric; placed in the Description field in the item. Usually looks like 'Vol 1 No 1 (Jan 2022)' |
SIZE_ID |
Used with CLASS_NUMBER and SUFFIX to generate the call number in the 852 of the new holding record: $k SIZE_ID $h CLASS_NUMBER $i SUFFIX |
SEQUENCE_ID |
mandatory; use Alma Location map of the Migration form, as the second level of location (similar to Alma Location) |
CLASS_NUM |
part of call number, see SIZE_ID |
SUFFIX |
part of call number, see SIZE_ID |
CLASS_TYPE |
use in Shelving scheme map of Migration Form |
CREATE_DATE |
date |
CREATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff user who created the item |
UPDATE_DATE |
date |
UPDATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff user who last updated the item |
DATE_LAST_RETURN |
Date of last loan return for the item (YYYYMMDD). To see this value in Alma, search for the item under 'Physical Items' and on the results list click 'Other details'. |
NO_LOANS |
Total number of completed loans for the item. To see this value in Alma, search for the item under 'Physical Items' and on the results list click 'Other details'. Alma increments the loan count for items currently on loan, so it is recommended that you send (loans - 1) for currently loaned items.
|
RECEIVE_NUMBER | In order to use the Receiving Number in Alma, you must configure an item sequence of type Receiving Number (Config menu -> Resources -> General -> Item Sequences). See Configuring Physical Item Sequences. |
INVENTORY_PRICE |
Both fields may be filled with a single ‘price’ field from Talis Alto if desired. The REPLACEMENT_COST will be used to assess fines if the item is lost. To provide this value in the Migration Validation Tool twice, click the plus sign (+) to the left of the incoming field. This will allow you to assign the value to two different expected fields. |
REPLACEMENT_COST |
Item Messages
Note Name | information |
---|---|
MessageText |
text which will be placed in an item note field |
MessageType | Use the migration file validation tool to map incoming Alto Talis message type codes to an Alma item note type |
ItemId | used to link this note file to the items |
Note Name | Example Local Field |
---|---|
PUBLIC_NOTE |
|
FULFILMENT_NOTE |
This is a pop-up note which displays during circulation transactions |
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_1 |
|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_1 |
|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_2 |
|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_3 |
|
STAT_NOTE_1 |
|
STAT_NOTE_2 |
|
STAT_NOTE_3 |
|
Item Statistics Notes (STAT_NOTE_*) can use controlled vocabulary when statistics_note_controlled is set to true. For more information, see Configuring Item Statistics Notes.
Item Barcodes
- If the barcode is empty, leave it as is.
- If the barcode exists but is not unique:
- First item barcode encountered – migrate as is.
- Second and subsequent item barcodes encountered – migrate as <item barcode>-<item id>.
Secondary Item File
We recommend that EnumX and ChronX fields contain only numbers, for example '12' instead of 'Vol. 12' and '2' instead of 'Feb'. However, it is programmatically time-consuming to distinguish between an invalid use (Vol. 12) and a valid use (12A), so in the interest of processing quickly, we allow any string in EnumX and ChronX fields. Do not provide a full date in a single field. Split any dates into three, for example 4 Feburary 2020 is ChronI=2020, ChronJ=2, ChronK=4.
Even though it is not recommended, if for any reason you need to provide a full date in a single field, put a tick (') before the date in the Excel cell so that it is treated like text (instead of the Excel date format).
Expected Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
item_key |
Provide either item_key or barcode, but not both. If both are provided, item_key is preferred. If providing barcode, then leave this field blank. |
barcode |
Provide either item_key or barcode, but not both. If both are provided, item_key is preferred. If providing item_key, then leave this field blank. Example: |
description |
Provide in a format such as: Vol. 12, No. 6 (February 2015). |
enumA |
For example, “12”. |
enumB |
For example, "6". |
enumC |
|
enumD |
|
enumE |
|
enumF |
|
enumG |
|
enumH |
|
chronI |
For example, "2015". |
chronJ |
For example, "2". |
chronK |
|
chronL |
|
chronM |
|
Checkins/Issues
Expected Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
CHECK_IN_ID |
mandatory; unique identifier for the checkin record |
DELIVERY_SITE |
use in Delivery Site map (holding code) to get a location |
YEAR |
alphanumeric; mapped to Chron I |
VOLUME |
alphanumeric; mapped to Enum A |
ISSUE |
alphanumeric; mapped to Enum B |
NUM |
alphanumeric mapped to Enum C |
DESCRIPTION |
alphanumeric; mapped to Description field. Use this field if the data is like 'Vol. 1 No 12 (2021 December)'. Use the four fields above (Year, Volume, Issue, Num) if the data is more like YEAR = 2021 VOLUME = 1 NUM = 12 ISSUE = 12. |
QtyExpected |
numeric. QtyExpected + QtyReceived = PIECES in the item record created here |
QtyReceived | numeric. QtyExpected + QtyReceived = PIECES in the item record created here |
DATE |
date checked in |
WORK_ID |
links to bib record |
Note Name | Default Local Field |
---|---|
PUBLIC_NOTE |
|
FULFILMENT_NOTE |
This is a pop-up note which displays during circulation transactions |
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_1 |
|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_2 |
|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE_3 |
|
STAT_NOTE_1 |
|
STAT_NOTE_2 |
|
STAT_NOTE_3 |
|
Customer Input
Questionnaire Tab
Institution Code, Customer Code, Institution Name, Customer Name, Time Zone
MARC Organizational Code
List Prefix for bibs from SFX or other management system
Do you use internal system numbers in Linked Entry fields?
Indicate if you use internal system numbers in linking fields. Internal system numbers from your legacy system are not continued in Alma, and therefore should be changed to MMSID (the Alma internal system number).
MARC fields: $w subfield for tags 76x-78x, 80x, 81x, and/or 83x
Unimarc fields: $1 subfield with prefix 001 for fields 423, 461, 462, 463, 464 [example: bib key 99999 in tag 461 = 461 $100199999]
Code: LINKED_ENTRY_W
Default: No
Options: If you answered Yes to this question, the internal system numbers in the subfield w of the specified tags (or $1001 for Unimarc) are converted from the former system number to the Alma system number.
Internal record designation for Linked Entry fields $w
Code: LINKED_ENTRY_PREFIX
Default: Blank
Options: If you answered Yes to the previous question and the internal system numbers have a prefix, enter the value to be matched to identify the local system number. If the system numbers in $w or $1001 do not have a prefix, or if you answered No to the previous question, leave this question blank.
Further information on LINKED_ENTRY_W and LINKED_ENTRY_PREFIX: When bibliographic records are related to each other, such as a journal title that is superseded by a second journal title, your previous ILS may store the information in bibliographic fields 76x-78x, 80x, 81x, and 83x $w for MARC, and 423, 461, 462, 463, 464 for Unicode. If the number in the $w or $1001 of the linking tags is the internal legacy ILS system number, these numbers must be changed to the Alma representation of the system number. If your library does not use the internal system number to link and instead relies on more general identifiers such as the ISBN, ISSN, or shared cataloging DB (OCLC or DLC), these numbers are not modified.
In Alma, the system numbers in the linking field are used to link two related bibliographic records together using the related records process. Related records can be found by clicking the More Info link on the Alma Search Results page. For more information on configuring related records, see Configuring Related Records for Physical Inventory.
Indicate which 852 subfields to use to determine unique holding records
Limit exported records by location
Bib Key Prefix
Move 001/003 to 035 or 935
Code: 001_035_935
Default: 035
Options: If your incoming bibliographic records have a number in the 001, then the migration programs move it elsewhere as (<003>)<001>. For example: (OCoLC)12345. To move to the 035, which is the default, then select 035 in the dropdown. If you are part of a consortium and are using OCLC numbers to determine matching records when linking to the NZ, you may wish to move this number to the 935 so that the moved number does not interfere with another matching key you may be using. If you are not linking to the NZ, then this question is likely not useful. Default: 035
Ex Libris marks the moved 035 or 935 with $9 ExL to indicate that the migration programs generated this field.
Further information: If an 035 exists in the record already with the identifier that was in the 001, then a second (duplicate) tag is NOT made. Also, when checking if the identifier already exists, the migration programs compare to the $a only. Meaning, if an existing tag contains
001 12345
003 OCoLC
035 $a(OCoLC)12345 $z (OCoLC)54321
then the existing 035 $a is considered a duplicate and a second tag is not created.
Use subfield indicators in item call number (AltCallNo)
Code: ITEM_CALLNO_SUBFIELD
Default: Yes
Options: When generating an Item Call Number field (also known as AltCallNo), you can decide if the string contains subfield indicators. Default = Yes
Yes = $h PZ3.A93 Pr16 $i A975
No = PZ3.A93 Pr16 A975
For more information on when an Item Call Number is generated, see the section Changing the Holding Record Grouping, which depends on the question 852_SUBFIELDS_FOR_HOL.
Add $9 LOCAL to specified tags
Code: NZ_LOCAL_TAGS
Default: empty
Options: Add $9 LOCAL to specified bib tags, for use in consortia where an IZ environment links to an NZ. Tags marked as Local will be kept in the IZ, and not moved to the NZ.
Format for this input: tag + indicator. Use # for any/wildcard, and b for the space character. Separate with semicolon.
Example: 59###; 69###;960##;970##;090b#
The wildcard works only for the third digit of the tag and the indicators. Examples:
CORRECT: 95###
INCORRECT: 9####
Also, 900-949 cannot be used here, as described in the Migration Considerations for Consortia guide
Alma Library Tab
Alma Location Tab
Talis SITE_ID< | Talis SEQUENCE_ID | Alma Library Code | Alma Location Code | Alma Location Desc | Alma External Loc Desc | Suppress from Externalization |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ALMA_ME_ VALUE_NOT _FOUND | ALMAME_VALUE_NOT_FOUND | MAIN | UNASSIGNED | Problem location from Migration | Problem: See Library Staff | Yes |
Alma Location Name and Alma External Location Name
Library | Alma Location Code | Alma Location Name | Alma External Location Name |
---|---|---|---|
Library A | stacks | Main Stacks | Main Stacks |
Library B | stacks | Main Stacks | Main Stacks |
Library A | archa | Archives A | Archives |
Library B | archa | Archives B | Archives |
Library A | archstk | Archives Stacks | Archives |
Library A | archref | Archives Reference | Archives |
Library | Alma Location Code | Alma Location Name | Alma External Location Name |
---|---|---|---|
Library A | archstk | Archives | Archives |
Library A | archref | Archives | Archives |
- The Alma library is placed in the 852‡b field.
- The Alma location is placed in the 852‡c field.
Collapsing Locations
Talis Location Code | Alma Library | Alma Location Code | Alma Location Name | Alma External Loc Name | Suppress from Externalization | Electronic Location |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
reserves | MAIN | RESERVES | Reserves | Reserve | Yes | No |
reservesElec | MAIN | RESERVES | Reserves | ReserveElec | Yes | Yes |
reservesShort | MAIN | RESERVES | Reserves | Reserve | Yes | No |
reservesPerm | MAIN | RESERVES | Reserves | Reserve | Yes | No |
Holding Code Tab (DELIVERY_SITE)
Shelving Scheme Tab
Item Type Tab
Item Base Status Tab
Further Explanation – Inventory
MARC Holding Records
- The MARC Organization Code is placed in the 852 $a field (if desired/provided).
- The Alma library is placed in the 852‡b field.
- The Alma location is placed in the 852‡c field.
Determining Groups of Holding Records
- Item 1, 2 in Location A
- Item 3, 4 in Location B
- Item 5 in Location C
Changing the Holding Record Grouping
Serial Records
Checkins (Issues)
Material Type
Fulfillment/Patrons
Patrons
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
BORROWER_ID |
mandatory; unique identifier of the patron record. |
BARCODE |
alphanumeric, repeatable. Use in User identifier section below |
SURNAME |
alphanumeric |
FIRST_NAMES |
alphanumeric |
TYPE |
e.g. undergrad or staff. Use in User Group tab of migration form |
STATUS |
active or inactive |
STYLE |
alphanumeric; placed in user's Title (e.g. Mr., Ms. etc) |
REGISTRATION_NUMBER |
use in User Identifier section below |
EXPIRY_DATE |
date; may be left empty |
CREATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff user who created this record |
CREATE_DATE |
date |
UPDATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff user who last updated this record |
UPDATE_DATE |
date |
GROUPING_IDS |
alphanumeric; these are placed in the User Stat Categories for the patron record; use in UserStatCategories map of Migration Form. See User Stat Categories section below |
INTERNAL_EXTERNAL |
INTERNAL or EXTERNAL patron record. If this field is not present in the patron extract, use the Internal? question on the User Group tab of the migration form. |
BIRTH_DATE | date |
Borrower Analysis
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
Identifier |
mandatory; used to link this file to the main borrower file. |
Code | Statistical code; usually placed in UserStatCategory |
User Addresses, Emails, Phones
Alma Address Field | Symphony Field Name | Preference and Type selection |
---|---|---|
Preferred Address Selection |
Select preferred: |
Address 1 |
USER_ADDR1 |
Select type: |
select an address type for all address 1 lines here |
ADDRESS_NAME |
|
|
LINE1 , etc |
|
|
Emails: Select type for each |
Select Preferred email: |
Which is the preferred email out of all emails? |
EMAIL_NO |
|
For this particular email, which type should it be? |
Phones: Select type for each |
Select Preferred phone: |
Which is the preferred phone out of all phones? |
TELEPHONE_NO |
|
For this particular phone, which type should it be? |
User Identifiers
Alma Identifier Type | Talis Field Name | Talis Field Name for Note |
---|---|---|
UNIV_ID |
REGISTRATION_NUMBER |
REGISTRATION_DATE |
BAR |
BARCODE |
|
ADDL_ID_1 |
|
|
ADDL_ID_2 |
|
|
ADDL_ID_3 |
|
|
ADDL_ID_4 |
|
|
User Statistical Categories
Eser Statistical Category | Local Field Name | Field Label |
---|---|---|
USER_STAT_CATEGORY |
HOME INST |
INST: |
USER_STAT_CATEGORY |
DEPT |
DEPT: |
USER_STAT_CATEGORY |
SCHOOL |
SCHOOL: |
Borrower Messages
Note Name | information |
---|---|
MessageText |
text which will be placed in a patron note field |
MessageType | Use the migration file validation tool to map incoming Alto Talis message type codes to an Alma patron note type |
BorrowerId | used to link this note file to the borrower |
Notes
Note Name | Information |
---|---|
LIBRARY_NOTE |
|
BARCODE_NOTE |
|
ADDRESS_NOTE |
|
CIRC_NOTE | CIRC_NOTE is marked by the migration programs as a popup note. This is the only user note which migration marks as a popup note. |
OTHER_NOTE |
OTHER_NOTE is marked as userViewable by the migration programs. This is the only note which migration marks as user viewable. |
Active Loans
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
LOAN_ID |
Loan_ID; unique identifier of the loan |
ITEM_ID |
mandatory; links to item record |
BORROWER_ID |
mandatory; links to user record |
DUE_DATE |
date |
CREATE_DATE |
date |
CREATE_LOCATION |
alphanumeric |
CREATE_OP |
alphanumeric |
NO_RENEWALS | this is used to check the status (if > 0) only. If you want to retain the actual number of renewals, then also place this field in a note |
Note Name | Default Local Field |
---|---|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE |
LOAN_TYPE |
Active Requests
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
Site for collection |
|
Borrower Barcode |
Either Borrower Barcode or Borrower ID is required. Due to limitations in the Migration File Validation Tool, we only require Borrower Barcode. If you have Borrower ID but not Borrower Barcode, fill Borrower Barcode with some non-used field, which will later be ignored. |
Borrower ID | Either Borrower Barcode or Borrower ID is required. |
Item barcode |
Use this field if the incoming field contains only item barcode |
Reserved Stock | Use this field if the incoming field contains bib and item together |
Placed_date |
Date request was placed. If no value, conversion uses 30 days prior to conversion date |
Sat_date |
Date placed on hold shelf. If no value, conversion uses conversion date |
Expiry_date |
Date request expires. If no value, conversion uses 7 days after conversion date |
Note Name | Default Local Field |
---|---|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE |
Borrower name |
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE |
Registration number |
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE |
Control number |
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE |
Bibliographic description |
Fines and Fees
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
File: charge_incurred (CHARGES) |
|
CHARGE_INCURRED_ID |
unique key for fine reocrd |
TRANSACTION_TYPE |
Use "fine fee type" map in migration form |
AMOUNT |
amount owed; can be positive or negative but cannot be 0.00 In order to get the final amount owed in Alma, migration calculates in one of two ways If Credit file present: FF_SUM = CHARGE.AMOUNT minus (sum of all related CREDIT.AMOUNT entries) If Credit file not present: FF_SUM = CHARGE.AMOUNT minus (TotalPaid + TotalWaived) |
TotalPaid | |
TotalWaived | |
BORROWER_ID |
Matches BORROWER_ID in patrons |
CREATE_DATE |
|
CREATE_LOCATION |
|
CREATE_OPERATOR |
|
File: credit_vs_incurred (CREDITS) |
|
INCURRED_ID |
Links to CHARGE_INCURRED_ID above |
AMOUNT |
amount owed; can be positive or negative but cannot be 0.00 |
Note Name | Default Local Field |
---|---|
NON_PUBLIC_NOTE |
NOTE |
Customer Input
Questionnaire Tab
Enter a two-letter code for the default conversational language for your users
Which identifier should be used as the patron's Primary Identifier?
How should we handle duplicate identifiers in the same patron?
Code: DUP_ID_SAME_PATRON
Default: DISCARD
Options: Alma does not allow duplicate identifiers anywhere, even in the same patron. If the patron has the same number in two or more different identifier types, we can either not migrate the second one, or disambiguate it with -1, -2 etc.
DISCARD: do not migrate the second and subsequent identifiers
ADD_SUFFIX: add -1, -2, etc
Default: DISCARD
Currency for patron fines
Request Default Destination Library
Merge Patron Prefix
Code: MERGE_PATRON_PREFIX
Default: No
Options: If you are combining data from two or more separate databases into a single combined institution in Alma, then indicate a prefix here that will be used to distinguish the incoming patron record original IDs. This prefix is only added to the internal patron identifier, it is not added to barcodes or usernames or UNIV_ID. If you are not merging institutions, leave this question blank.
See also: BIB_KEY_PREFIX in Inventory and FUND_PREFIX in Acquisitions
User Group Tab
- Which identifier should be used by as the patron's Primary Identifier?
User Stat Categories Tab
Before filling in this tab, specify in the Patrons tab of the Generic to Alma Field Mapping form which fields from your legacy ILS are migrated to statistical categories in Alma. You can include a label before each category to distinguish between categories in different fields. For example, you can have LAW in USER_CATEGORY1 and also LAW in USER_CATEGORY2. If desired, use a prefix to distinguish between the two, for example, CAT1: LAW and CAT2: LAW.
The migration engine adds a space between the label you specified in the Field Mapping form and the value. So if you included a label 'CAT:' in the field mapping, then use 'CAT: a' here (if 'a' is an incoming value).
Fine Fee Type Tab
Further Explanation – Fulfillment/Patrons
Internal/External Patrons
Identification Numbers
Acquisitions
Acquisitions are migrated if included in the scope of the contract (Premium migration).
- Vendors – migrated from the vendor extract.
- Fund transactions – encumbrances are generated for open (SENT) orders for the current fiscal year only.
- Funds – generated for the current fiscal year based on a single list of fund.
- Purchase Orders (Continuous) – generated from the openOrders + openOrderSubscription file.
- In the Migration File Validation tool:
- OpenOrders = Open Order - Main = CONTINUOUS ORDERS
- OpenOrderSubscription = Open Order - Subscription = SUBSCRIPTION
- In the Migration File Validation tool:
- Purchase Orders (Monographic) - Monographic orders are generated from the AcqOrders + AcqItems file. Usually, all of these orders are SENT (on order).
- In the Migration File Validation tool:
- AcqOrders = orders.txt = MONOGRAPHIC ORDERS
- AcqItems = OrderItems.txt = MONOGRAPHIC ORDER LINES.
- In the Migration File Validation tool:
Vendors
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
SUPPLIER_ID |
used for linking to order; not used in the actual vendor record. |
SUPPLIER_CODE |
mandatory; vendor code |
SUPPLIER_NAME |
mandatory; vendor name |
VAT_REG_NO |
alphanumeric; national tax id |
CREATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff member who created the record |
CREATE_DATE |
date |
UPDATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff member who most recently updated the record |
UPDATE_DATE |
date |
ADDRESS_LINE1 |
alphanumeric |
ADDRESS_LINE2 | A |
ADDRESS_LINE3 | |
ADDRESS_LINE4 | |
ADDRESS_LINE5 | |
POSTCODE |
alphanumeric |
TELEPHONE_NO |
alphanumeric |
FAX_NO |
alphanumeric |
SAN |
alphanumeric; placed in EDI code field of vendor |
ACCOUNT_NO |
alphanumeric; vendor account code. |
Note Name | Default Local Field |
---|---|
VENDOR_NOTE (will be sent with the order) |
NOTE |
VENDOR_NOTE |
ORDER_METHOD |
VENDOR_NOTE |
SUPPLIER_LEVEL |
Orders - Continuous
Continuous orders are generated from the OpenOrders and Subscription files.
On the ESS request form, these two files are called "Open Order - Main" and "OpenOrder - Subscription".
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
OpenOrderId |
links to subscription record |
Status |
alphanumeric; use in PO Entry Point map in Migration Form |
OrderNumber |
order number that is sent to vendor; must be unique in Alma |
BibId |
links to bib 001 field; this is the related bib record |
Supplier |
links to vendor record |
SubType |
type of subscription; use in PO Line Type map of migration form |
Type |
alphanumeric; use in PO Acq Method map of migration form |
VERIFIED |
T or F; used to indicate if an order is approved (T = approved, F = not approved yet) |
OrderDate |
date |
SubStartDate |
subscription start date |
SubEndDate |
subscription renewal date |
FORMAT |
alphanumeric; use in PO Reporting Code map of Migration Form |
IssuePrice | cost of order |
Currency | currency; use in Currency Code map of migration form |
ServiceCharge | VAT in local currency |
Discount | |
FundCategory | Fund code |
INSTRUCTION |
note for supplier |
ORDER_GENERATION_DATE |
date |
CREATE_DATE |
date |
CREATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff member who created this record |
UPDATE_OP |
alphanumeric; staff member who most recently updated this record |
UPDATE_DATE |
date |
Note Name | Default Local Field |
---|---|
PO_NOTE (note on the purchase order header) |
NOTE |
PO_NOTE |
SOURCE |
PO_NOTE |
CREATE_LOC |
POL_NOTE |
INSTRUCTION |
POL_NOTE |
VERDE_ID |
POL_RECEIVING_NOTE |
This line cannot be duplicated; place only one local field name here. |
POL_VEND_REF_NO |
This line cannot be duplicated; place only one local field name here. Usually this is the SUPPLIER_REFERENCE field |
POL_ADDL_NO |
This line cannot be duplicated; place only one local field name here. |
Subscriptions
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
OPEN_ORDER_ID |
links to order |
DELIVERY_SITE |
is a SITE_ID; use Holding Code map in Migration Form |
Note Name | Local default Field |
---|---|
POL_NOTE (note on the purchase order header) |
NOTE |
POL_NOTE |
SUPPLIER_ID |
Orders - Monographic
Monographic Orders are generated from two files from Talis: AcqOrders and AcqItems.
On the ESS request form, these are: "Order - Main" and "Order - Items". The migration programs do not have a need for Order - Reports.
Provide this file in csv format. Provide the order file in standard comma delimited format, as a standard Talis extract. The fields in the following table are expected. Indicate the local field names for the expected fields in the Orders section of the Migration File Validation Tool.
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
ORDER_ID | Order Line number (which is sent to the vendor) |
ITEM_ID | link to the item record |
ORDER_STATUS | use in PO Entry Point map of migration form |
ORDER_NUMBER | PO Header number |
WORK_ID | links to bib record 001; this is the link to the bib |
SUPPLIER_ID | links to the vendor record |
ORDER_TYPE_ID | used in two maps: POAcqMethod and POLineType |
ORDER_DATE | PO Send date |
PRICE_PER_ITEM | line amount in local |
PRICE_PER_ITEM_CURR | currency of the order |
COMMITMENT | also known as encumbrance; the amount which is 'spoken for' |
FORMAT | use in PO Reporting Code map |
INSTRUCTION | placed in POL_NOTE_TO_VENDOR |
ORDER_GENERATION_DATE | PO create date |
CREATE_LOC | PO Library ID; this is sent through the Holding Code in Migration form |
CREATE_OP | |
UPDATE_OP | |
EDIT_DATE | |
FUND_CODE | links to the fund file |
Lines (Item) file | |
LINES.ITEM_ID | links to ordered item |
LINES.LOCATION | intended location for item |
LINES.FUND_CODE | fund code |
Any additional fields not listed above may be put into notes. The possible note fields in Alma items are listed in the following chart in the Note Name column. The fields listed in the Default Local Field column are those that are expected by Ex Libris. If you use other field names or have fields that you want to include in the migration but are not expected by Ex Libris, add them on the right as needed. The vendor reference number, the additional number, and the receiving note may only be listed once, but you may make as many duplicate lines for PO_NOTE and POL_NOTE as necessary.
Note Name | Default Local Field |
---|---|
PO_NOTE (note on the purchase order header) |
NOTE |
PO_NOTE |
SOURCE |
PO_NOTE |
CREATE_LOC |
POL_NOTE |
INSTRUCTION |
POL_NOTE |
VERDE_ID |
POL_RECEIVING_NOTE |
This line cannot be duplicated; place only one local field name here. |
POL_VEND_REF_NO |
This line cannot be duplicated; place only one local field name here. |
POL_ADDL_NO |
This line cannot be duplicated; place only one local field name here. |
Funds
Field Name | Notes |
---|---|
LEDGER CODE |
May be repeated across lines to group funds under a single ledger |
LEDGER NAME |
May be repeated across lines to group funds under a single ledger |
SUMMARY FUND CODE |
Not mandatory, may be repeated across lines |
SUMMARY FUND NAME |
Not mandatory, may be repeated across lines |
FUND CODE |
Alphanumeric, not repeatable (This is the fund code that links to the fund code in the extracted order record.) Must be unique, even across Ledgers. |
FUND NAME |
Alphanumeric, repeatable |
LIBRARY |
leave blank; currently all funds are set at the institution level |
EXT ID |
External ID for linking to an external source, if one exists. |
ALLOCATION |
Allocation, in dollars, of the current fiscal year’s funds. |
FY |
Fiscal Year YYYY |
NOTE |
optional note for the fund |
Customer Input
Questionnaire Tab
Migrate Acquisitions
Default currency for Ledgers/Funds
Default language of conversation with vendors
Fiscal Period Cycle Pattern
Which year do you use to name the fiscal year?
- second – if fiscal period runs July 1 2014 through June 30 2015, then the fiscal year is named 2015.
- first – if fiscal period runs July 1 2014 through June 30 2015, then the fiscal year is named 2014.
Current Fiscal Year
- Determine by date of conversion – The conversion program uses the fiscal period that includes the date of conversion.
- 2013-2014 – Select this option if the date of conversion is later than the fiscal period to which you want your orders to migrate. For example, if the migration date is July 3, 2014, and the previous fiscal period ended on June 30, 2014, select this to put all of your orders in the fiscal period that ended on June 30, 2014. Select this option if you want to run fiscal period close in Alma instead of in your old system.
- 2014-2015 – If the date of conversion is earlier than the start date of the desired fiscal period, select this option. For example, if the migration date is June 15, 2014, and the next fiscal period begins on July 1, 2014, select this option to put all of your orders in the next fiscal period. Select this option if you want to perform the fiscal period rollover in your legacy ILS prior to conversion.
Accrual Accounting
- No – do not make an additional fiscal year.
- Yes – No Funds – make an additional fiscal year but leave it empty. The library will then need to create funds for this fiscal year after go-live.
- Yes – duplicate funds – make an additional fiscal year and also fill it with funds that are the same codes as the funds in the current fiscal year. No allocations are made.
Default claiming period
Central Order Library
Default Order Library
Renewal Date for Serials Subscriptions
Fund Prefix
PO Entry Point Tab
- NEW – The order has been created, but has not been sent to the vendor. Orders can have status NEW for years while librarians are reviewing what to order, or they can be NEW for just a short while if the acquisitions staff created the order to send to the vendor immediately.
- SENT – The order has been sent to the vendor and funds have been encumbered/committed. The item has not been received yet for one-item orders, or the item has been received for continuous orders. Continuous orders that continue to be invoiced/received remain with SENT status (which can be considered as a sub-status of waiting for renewal within Alma) until they are closed.
- WAITING_FOR_INVOICE – Use only for one-time orders. The item has been received, but not the invoice. Invoice status must not be FULLY_INVOICED.
- CLOSED – The order has been received and invoiced. Nothing else will be received on this order. (Do not use for open continuous orders that you are still receiving.)
- CANCELLED – The order is cancelled.
PO Line Type Tab
- PRINT_OT – printed book one time. This is used for one time or infrequent orders of specific items, for example, a printed book, E book, or a musical score, that is not published repetitively. The order is at the item level. If the only physical items that you order are books, this type is essentially the same as Print Book - One Time.
- PRINTED_BOOK_OT: Print Book One Time
- PRINT_CO – journal/continuation. This is used for orders that are repeated on a regular basis. An example is monthly subscriptions to physical or electronic material such as journals. The order is at the holding level, and items in the holding record are received periodically.
- PRINTED_JOURNAL_CO: Print Journal - Subscription
- PRINT_SO – standing order monograph. This is used for orders that are not repeated on a frequent or regular basis. For example, this type of PO line is used for purchasing all the printed books by a particular author when they are published or where a series of books are being published, but not necessarily on a regular basis. The receipt of new material involves a new bibliographic, holdings, and item record. If the only physical items that you order are books, this type is essentially the same as Print Book - Standing Order.
- PRINTED_BOOK_SO: Print Book – Standing Order
- PRINT_SO_NONMON - Standing Order Non-Monograph – Similar to continuous orders.
- OTHER_SERVICES_OT - Other Services One Time – Various non-inventory orders for services purchased from a vendor. Both one-time behavior and repetitive behavior are available. This should only be applied to orders without inventory. For electronic resources, see the ‘Line Types and electronic orders’ section below.
- OTHER_SERVICES_CO: Other Services Subscription. This should only be applied to orders without inventory. For electronic resources, see the ‘Line Types and electronic orders’ section below.
Line Types and Electronic Orders
PO Acq Method Tab
- PURCHASE – normal workflow
- GIFT – not sent to vendor and no invoicing or payment
- EXCHANGE – not sent to vendor and no invoicing or payment
- APPROVAL – pre-established delivery plan - normal workflow except not sent to vendor
- VENDOR_SYSTEM – the order is placed at the vendor site so that sending it to the vendor is not required. The normal workflow is followed except that the order is not sent to the vendor.
- DEPOSITORY – usually from the government. The order is not sent to vendor and there is no invoicing or payment.
- TECHNICAL – no fund or amount required
- LEGAL_DEPOSIT – does not require fund or price, and uses a special version of the PO Line order letter
PO Reporting Code Tab
Further Explanation – Acquisitions
PO Entry Point
"In Review"
The migration programs fill out the following elements based on incoming data:
- PO Line type
- PO Entry Point
- PO Invoice Status
- Send date
- Expected receiving interval/date
Alma can have a further status of 'In Review'. Migration does not set the 'In Review' status, but rather the 'In Review' status is set by a series of rules using the elements above and possibly other elements. The initial set of rules used to determine these further statuses is not controlled by the customer; it is controlled by Alma Development. Customers are often frustrated by the statuses set for NEW orders:
- when NEW and OT (one time), the status is set to 'In Review'
- when NEW and CO or SO (continuous), the status is set to 'Waiting for Renewal'
You can find out more about the PO Review Rules, and how to turn rules on or off, by consulting the page Configuring Purchasing Review Rules.
Transactions of Amount 0.00
Electronic Identification (P2E)
If you provide a bibliographic record in the P2E file, the migration programs will generate an electronic resource for the bib, even if there is no valid URL. An example of an invalid URL might be an 856 tag with an indicator which does not match the specific indicator in the question P2E_LINK, below. For example, if you say that we use 85641u for the P2E_LINK, and you provide a bib record *without* a 85641u but that bib record is in the p2e file, then we will generate a local e-resource without any link at all (an empty resource). Be careful which bibs are placed in the bib file.
Further, the P2E process attempts to identify an order related to the identified inventory for conversion to electronic. Similarly to items and holdings, orders are initially migrated as print and are transformed to electronic through the p2e process. See the guide https://knowledge.exlibrisgroup.com/Alma/Implementation_and_Migration/Migration_Guides/Electronic_System_Migrations/Electronic_Resource_Handling_in_Alma_Migration for more information.
Customer Input
Questionnaire Tab
- Specific indicators: 85641u – only tags with 41 as the indicator is used.
- No indicator (# is used for a blank character, for example: 8564#u) – only tags with 4<blank> as an indicator are used.
- All possible indicators: 8564*u – tags with 4 as the first indicator are used. The second indicator is not taken into account.
The space character operates the same way as an asterisk (*), for example: 8564 u is the same as 8564*u.
-
Special Request: If you need to specify multiple specific indicators, for example 85641 and 85642, it cannot be coded in the migration form but your ExL representative can make a special request to the migration team.