As NLS shared in their recent Op-Alert, they will now be tracking referral sources using a standardized list.
In KLAS, this will be tracked and reported using the Referral Source field on the Patron Main tab. We are still working with NLS to get the list of codes we'll need to pass to PIMMS, but for now, please have a look at your Referral Sources.
If there are any sources you need to add (or if you haven't previously been using this field and need the whole list set up), let us know and we'll lend a hand! The sooner you start adding this information for new patrons, the more information you'll be able to pass on to NLS.
Note: You can have more than one thing "mapped" to the same NLS source. If there's anything you want to track more specifically, that's fine! Just know which NLS category it falls into.
For example, you can have a specific Public Library that you've partnered with plus "Other Public Libraries" both count as just "Public Library" on the NLS side. Or, you can track each of your state's VA Hospitals seperately, but report all of them as "Veterans Affairs/Defense Health Agency" to NLS.
Another thing to know: KLAS v7.7 will be able to report these sources "live" as part of the regular PIMMS processing. KLAS v7.6 will
track these codes, and report the information as a batch once your library converts to the new version.
Their list again, for easy reference:
- Veterans Affairs/Defense Health Agency
- Other Health Care Professional
- Vocational Rehabilitation Center
- Friend/Family
- Public Library
- School
- Consumer/Support Group
- Event/Expo
- TV Ad
- Radio Ad
- Other Ad
- Internet/Social Media
- Other
Once we have the final list of PIMMS codes, we'll get everything mapped as soon as possible--so please take some time to figure out how you want your list of sources to line up with theirs. And again, if you need to add sources or any other assistance, please get in touch!
Topic Author
