[Publib] Patron in good standing

[Linda Cannon]

We don't do it, nor have we ever, but I personally would love to see a
national database of "bad patrons". I know that people come here to get
cards who have ripped off other libraries, and I know people who have
ripped us off have moved on to do the same elsewhere. In my dreams,
patrons who sign up for a card do so with the understanding that they'll
be registered in the database if they fail to pay fines, lost charges,
damaged charges, whatever and that every library in the country will be
forever able to see "Oh, no you don't!" when they show up to victimize
them. I would have no problem issuing such a form for a patron.  Jumping
off my crabby soapbox. . . 


Linda Cannon
Collection Development Librarian
Joplin Public Library
 

-----Original Message-----
From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Martha Lee
Sent: Thursday, August 28, 2008 3:55 PM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] Patron in good standing

We have reciprocal borrowing privileges with other local libraries which
do not have access to our patron database.  One of the libraries has
begun requiring patrons from outside their funding district to provide
proof they are "a patron in good standing" with their home library
before they will issue them a card providing access to their library.  
Initially the other library called us, but we do not provide patron
information over the telephone.  Now the patrons have a form we must
fill out.  I understand the policy and don't question their right to do
so, but have mixed feelings about it.  I'm curious if other libraries do
this, and what the reaction from other librarians is.

Martha Lee
Head of Support Services
Orion Township Public Library, MI


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