[OPLINLIST] computer usage & fines

[Adam Murphy]

We currently do not block patrons from using the computers based on 
fines. There have been previous discussions about this. We weren't quite 
sure where to set the limit, low at $5 or high at $20+.

Setting it too low will frustrate more patrons but more fines will be 
paid. Setting it high would force those with only big fines to pay. But 
they may only pay a fraction of the fine in order to use a PC. If your 
goal is to reduce the amount of fines owed then you may want to force 
patrons to pay at least 50% in order get under $20. So if a patron has 
$30 they have to pay at least $15 not $10 to squeeze under the $20 limit.

Counter view: Since computers are part of the library their usage is no 
different then a patron reading a magazine or a book while in the 
library. A patron with huge fines can still use library materials they 
just can't checkout.

That is how our discussions have gone in the past and our current view 
is the PCs are the same as a magazine or newspaper.

Adam

On 4/7/2010 1:41 PM, Sandy Thaxton wrote:
> Hi everyone,
>
> I know fine issues have been discussed on this listserv ad nauseum, but
> I think I have a different slant.
>
> Currently, in order for our patrons to check out books or other items,
> they need to have their fines below $20.00.
>   There is no such policy for computer usage, although many patrons have
> fines of  $40.00, $50.00 and (much) more. The thought is that they may
> need to use the computer for a job search, although in my experience
> those are maybe 1% of the patrons using computers. Therefore, patrons
> with large fines may access the computers and they have no obligation
> (and no reason) to pay their fines.
>
> I am interested to know how other libraries address this issue. Would
> you share? Thanks.
>
> Sandy Thaxton
> MLJ-Hardin County District Library
> Kenton, OH 43326
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-- 
Adam Murphy
IT Specialist
Rossford Public Library
720 Dixie Highway
Rossford, OH 43460
(419) 666-0924