[Publib] patron generated purchase requests

[Rebecca Bronson]

Hi John--

We take patron pruchase requests via email, in person and in writing
(usually one in the same at the info desk with our "Purchase Request" blue
form). It sounds like this is a new service for your library, so you may be
experiencing patron exuberance at the availability of this service. You may
find that things settle down in a month or so of their own accord. As a rule
we try to order what our patrons ask for as long as it fits within the scope
of our public library collection. If we are unable to purchase a patron's
suggested title, we make every effort to let them know. We will also suggest
ILL if the item is available.

HTH,
Becki

Rebecca Bronson
Reference Librarian
Handley Regional Library
P.O. Box 1300
Stephens City, VA  22655

540-869-9000 (voice)
540-869-9001 (fax)

www.hrl.lib.state.va.us


-----Original Message-----
From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org]On Behalf Of John Fossett
Sent: Wednesday, May 09, 2007 6:37 PM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] patron generated purchase requests


Folks,
We're swimming in patron generated purchase requests. We added an online
form and requests for media are nearly double the amount from this time
last year. Right now we limit to three requests per day. Obviously that
isn't working.
For those of you who take patron suggestions for purchase, do you limit
the number of requests per day? Per week? Per month? Per year? Also, do
you reply to the patron if you can't find a vendor or you choose not to
purchase the suggested item? Do the unobtainable requests automatically
role into ILL's domain?
Thanks.
John

John F. Fossett
Media Librarian
Kitsap Regional Library
1301 Sylvan Way
Bremerton, WA 98310
jfossett at krl.org
(360)405-9101


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