The UserTypes table defines the User Types in use in the library, and relates them to the User Categories used in Aurora, the Workforms for entry of the User data, and some thresholds used in the Circulation system. See also Loan Control Parameters [3.10], where the User Types are combined with other parameters to form a loans control matrix.

Categories #

Aurora’s User Control extends beyond readers to include all individuals and corporate entities which have relationships with the library. These are defined across the Aurora system, and include:

• r readers (i.e. normal public membership)
• p suppliers (e.g. book or materials suppliers)
• s staff (i.e. internal library staff and processes)
• l libraries (for inter-library loan purposes)
• x institutions (such as corporate borrowers)

Types #

Each category is defined for the User Type which is determined as a numeric code (UT_ID). This code is used to identify the specific workform for entry of relevant user data, and also in the circulation system parameters. In future developments, types belonging to other categories will be used to identify specific characteristics as appropriate.

InstitutionRemember that Aurora can be used as a multi-institution system, and each user type can be related to separate institutions.

Limits and Thresholds #

The table also defines the overall loan limit for the User type, as well as thresholds for charges and fines. If the user reaches or crosses these thresholds, then the system will automatically stop, or debar, the specific user. Note that an absolute system limit for loans is held in the Enterprise table.