[OPLINLIST] computer usage & fines

[Phil Shirley]

We block computer use at the same level as we block checkouts, which is 
$5 owed.

Phil

Adam Murphy wrote:
> 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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> 

-- 

Phil Shirley
Technology Services Coordinator
Cuyahoga Falls Library
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
330-928-2117, ext. 109
pshirley at CuyahogaFallsLibrary dot org

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