Skip to main content
Version: 3.1.X

Acquisitions Overview

The Acquisitions Module manages the complete procurement cycle of library materials. Unlike simple lists of purchases, ABCD implements a structured workflow designed to track an item from a user's initial request to its physical arrival on the shelf.

The Workflow Cycle​

The module is redesigned around a 5-step lifecycle:

  1. Suggestions: Users or librarians propose items. These enter a "Pending" pool.
  2. Bidding & Decision: Administrators review suggestions, request quotes (bidding), and make a formal Decision to purchase.
  3. Creation of Order: Approved items are grouped into Purchase Orders (PO) linked to a specific Provider.
  4. Receiving: When boxes arrive, staff check items against the PO to ensure quantity and quality.
  5. Integration: Received items are automatically converted into inventory records (copies), making them available for Cataloging and Circulation.

Core Databases​

To support this flow, the module uses specific databases:

  • suggestions: Stores requests and their status history.
  • providers: Stores vendor contact details.
  • acq (or similar): Stores the purchase orders and financial data.