----------------------------Original message----------------------------
Johnnie,
Forwarding this message that appeared on Govdocs-l for
further discussion on Maps-l.
 
Ross Togashi
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Hamilton Library - Map Collection
 
 
---------- Forwarded message ----------
>Date: Tue, 20 Aug 1996 07:52:55 -1000
>From: Thomas Lindsey <[log in to unmask]>
>Reply-To: Discussion of Government Document Issues <[log in to unmask]>
>To: Multiple recipients of list GOVDOC-L <GOVDOC-L@PSUVM>
>Subject: Anyone using "scissor-lift" tables?
 
     Is any government documents or map collection using "scissor-
lift" tables or stands to transport folders of maps or stacks of maps
from map case drawers to work tables, and vice versa?  Manufacturers
of mobile, adjustable height tables, are indexed under the "Thomas
Register of Manufacturers" under the terms "Tables: Elevating",
"Material Handling Equipment", and "Scissor-Lift Tables" with some
cross references to "Lifts: Hydraulic".
     I foresee using such a table in our map room to carry maps over
to the map case, lowering the tabletop down to the height of the
drawer or slightly lower, and then transferring the oversize folders
to the table top.  The mobile table can then be raised and moved over
to a regular table.  Maps that have to be inserted into folders can
be stacked onto the mobile table and moved over to the map case.
     The current system, which can lead to back injuries, is to remove
as many as 5 folders in a stack, with up to 32 maps in each one, and
carry each one over to a distant table.  The cases and work tables
have to be dispersed around the room in their current positions
because of "redlined, overloaded" columns in this area of the
library.  Moving to the basement is not an option, nor is buying any
more map cases because of their weight and their cost.
     Thanks in advance for any information or advice.  Also, if
anyone has any labor-saving routine for minimizing map refiling time,
I would be pleased to learn its details.
     Tom Lindsey, Government Publications Reference Librarian, U of
Texas at Arlington