Security in M5 is implemented using the Group Editor, which creates, customizes, and modifies the group permissions required to gain access to M5 functions. The elaborate, hierarchical security scheme enables librarians to assign levels of access for the Catalog, Circulation, and database maintenance features.

 

Groups are created with customized sets of parameters and privileges. The three default group types are patron, item, and special reserve. An unlimited number of each type can be created, and patrons and items can be moved in batches to different groups for quick updating.

 

 

Each patron record must be assigned to a group to establish circulation privileges. Patron groups may exist for many patron types, such as general, VIP, volunteer, or staff member.

 

Each holding record must be assigned to a group to establish the item’s circulation parameters. Item groups may exist for many item types, such as general collection, periodicals, equipment, or reference.

 

Special reserve groups accommodate unusual circulation restrictions for special items and, if necessary, patrons. For example, to reserve selected science books used by students involved in a four-week project.