Locations are split into two types: Home Location, which largely remains static and lets patrons know where in your library an item can be found, and Current Location, which changes as items are charged, discarded, and placed in transit.
Home location
This is the location that you are able to change when editing a record. Libraries may choose any location for their items, but each location displays in the catalog with the same text. It is not possible for a single location to display in a different manner.
When choosing a location, keep the display text in mind. Because they are in use by other libraries, SWAN will likely not change the display text for a particular location, so even if a location policy seems to fit, you may need to request a new location for a particular collection of items. Please send in a ticket if you would like us to add a Location policy for you.
A current list of SWAN's Location policies can be found on the Item Configuration page.
Current location
The Current Location field acts more like an item status. This is the location that actually displays in the catalog search results. Most of the time, the Current Location will mirror the Home Location. But if an item is charged, the Current Location will change depending on the user to which it is charged.
If a Current Location appears to be in error -- for example if an item's current location is CHECKEDOUT, but you have found the item on the shelf -- discharging the item will likely restore the Current Location. There are exceptions to this, particularly with Discards. If you need an item's Current Location changed, please send a ticket to SWAN.
Shadowed locations
Some locations are shadowed from public view and will cause an item to be hidden from patrons using the catalog.
Selecting one of these locations will cause a red S to appear near the field, indicating the item is now shadowed. The Shadow Item checkbox will not populate. The two mechanisms work independently.
