[OPLINLIST] Loss of library materials

[Karen Sonderman]

We are currently looking into how much theft and loss of library materials
we are experiencing.  We know the theft of DVDs is on the rise, and we are
finding that a growing number of books are going missing, as well. We do not
have any security measures in place, and  the board may want to consider
implementing something. However, before they do anything they like to have
lots of numbers and comparisons, so does anyone have a percentage or number
that they would consider a "normal" loss rate for a public library? Is there
a normal loss rate? At what point do you stop shrugging the losses of as the
"cost of doing business" and become concerned? TIA

Karen Sonderman, Director
North Canton Public Library
185 North Main Street
North Canton, OH 44720
fax: 330-499-3452