[Publib] books returned dirty

[Lisa]

Question, when a regular patron with small children continually returns
books that were new and very clean with dirty covers and sticky covers and
wrinkled pages, but NOT colored in or torn, should the condition of the
books be addressed. The books are dirty enough to need to be wiped with a
damp cloth before reshelving and forever appear old and somewhat grubby due
to scuff marks and warped pages.

If this issue should be addressed, I need some help with a tactful and
encouraging approach. I tend to be blunt and to the point which does not go
over the way I intend for it too.

I understand that books will not remain in pristine condition, however most
borrowers return books in better condition. These books appear to have been
in the floor board of a car and stepped on several times. The children of
this patron do have dirty hands and faces and I do not want to embarrass  or
be rude to this young mother who seems not have the same amount of concern
for general appearance/cleanliness as some. And.....
I want all the kids to have books!

This is only a concern because we are a very small community that relies
heavily on donations  and I do not have funds to replace books that wear out
prematurely.

Thanks in advance for all perspectives on this issue.

Lisa
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