Behind the scenes, the AMHS is checking in the item as it is being routed. That means it eliminates routing delays if the item’s status has changed since it left the previous library. If a hold is cancelled, for example, the AMHS will either send it home or forward it to the next patron. The upside is that items are reaching their destinations faster—eliminating some of the unnecessary routing delays we used to encounter!

Unfortunately, there is a drawback. If the item is en route either for interlibrary loan outside of the SHARE system or is damaged and needs to be returned to the home library, the item should not go through the AMHS. If it does, it will check the item in, which may lead to Polaris erroneously routing the item back to the owning library or to another patron.

In order to assist IHLS sorters, SHARE recommends that members use visual cues for items that should not be checked in during transit. Please use the SHARE damaged item form, affixed with rubber bands, so that the sorters notice that the item should not be sent through the AMHS. If an item is on route for interlibrary loan (outside of SHARE), we are also requesting that members also use a written transit slip affixed with rubber bands