Modifying Lending database

[Nigelsw]

I would like to modify the Lending Library database for a friend who runs a costume hire shop. She needs to have Date Hired, Date Returned, Cost for Hiring and Stock Level included in the rental. It need not be too complicated eg no need for manufacturer or supplier. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I have to be honest my knowledge of Access is not brilliant. Thanks

[JeroenMioch]

If you want people to take a look at it then i would include the (empty) database in a zipfile.

What your trying to accomplish doesnt sound like rocket sience to me.
You need a table to administrate the customers date (name, hire date, return date etc) and a table that holds the stock info.
Then you need a form that lets you view the information, based on the first table. Then some SQL strings to update the stock info in the second table.

Buttons on the form can preform actions like return something to the stock, or vise versa.
You can have a warning set if for example the return date is expired.
You can include reports for billing.

The possabilities are endless, Access is most suited for these kind of databases.

But, you say your modifying a database, so what do you allready have and what do you still need to do ?

[Nigelsw]

I am modifying the Lending Library template found on Office.com. I would have though a third table would be needed for the rental side.

[JeroenMioch]

Ah ok, ive never used the examples on Office.com.
I can download it tomorrow at work and take a look if i can modify it for you, or at least give you suggestions.

You can do it using three tables, but i dont see the need really. One keeps track of customers and the other to manage the stock.
A simple checkbox will mark a costume rentable, or rented.
When your friend needs to look at costumes available for rent (along with other criteria if you want) he only has to click a button.
Same when he wants to look at custumes wich are rented.