[Publib] electronic signature cards

[Roberta Thomas]

We keep them because we have had patrons who insist there is another
person with that name who checked out an item on a card that is
mistakenly linked to the insister. With the registration cards, we can
prove the barcode and signature on the application belong to the
insister. It happens often enough to be worth keeping the cards around,
for now.

Roberta Thomas
Grayslake Area Public Library District

-----Original Message-----
From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Rawles-Heiser,
Carolyn
Sent: Friday, September 11, 2009 12:08 PM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: RE: [Publib] electronic signature cards

 
Why do you feel the need to maintain signature files?  We have not done
so for many many years and have never had any problems because we
didn't, even when working with a collection agency.   I guess I am just
asking because it is a good question when you are looking for a
technological solution for something that may not even be necessary.
We have people sign the application when they get a library card but we
don't keep the application forever.   Having a blank application form
around and written procedures about what is verified at the time of
application has seemed to satisfy everyone. 
Carolyn

Carolyn Rawles-Heiser
Library Director
Corvallis--Benton County Public Library
645 NW Monroe Ave.
Corvallis, OR  97330

-----Original Message-----
From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Val Stark
Sent: Friday, September 11, 2009 8:42 AM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] electronic signature cards

I hope someone out there can help me.

We currently have a 3x5 index card each patron (or patron's
parent/guardian) signs when they sign up for a library card
acknowledging they are responsible for everything charged on the card
until the library is notified of the loss of the card.  Unfortunately,
30,000 3x5 index cards take up a lot of space. With the advent of
technology, and the credit/debit card industry, there are these
wonderful little machines that let people slide their cards and sign on
the machine. 

My questions:  Is there any library using something comparable?
Does any library have an electronic signature panel?
Has any library scanned all of their signature cards into their system?

We would still like to have access to the signatures.  We still compare
signatures when there is a question if its the same patron when there
are 2 with the same name, same birth date (large fine) claiming NOT to
have a card but are both in our system.  

Any information on the brand, cost, or vendors used would be greatly
appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Val Stark
Circulation Assistant
Quincy Public Library
526 Jersey Street
Quincy, IL 62301
vstark at quincylibrary.org


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