We're finally gotten our synagogue library collection cataloged and relabelled and will be bringing lending online in a matter of weeks. Having tackled the big issues, I'm now trying to sort out all of the "minor" issues and finding them far more troublesome.
1) We have a self-checkout station coming but the system requires that returned items be checked in by "staff." This probably means we need a secure spot where returns can be left during times when staff is not around. I've looked at book drops available through library sources and they all are far bigger than we need and more expensive than we can afford. Does anyone know of a source for a more modest book drop? Or, I can ask if the temple office would be willing to take returns and hold them until we can collect them and check them in? I'd be interested in hearing how others have dealt with off-hours returns, either via hardware or other arrangements. 2) Related to the above, a concern was raised about sacred books going through a book drop. I've already heard from the clergy about proper handling – i.e., stacking volumes – of sacred books. so I'm been careful to observe those protocols. If we go ahead with installing a book drop, there is no way to guarantee what will be piled on what and how. We might need to either remove sacred texts from circulation or find a separate, alternate arrangement for returning these. I will probably consult with the rabbis about this question, but I'd like to hear how other synagogue libraries have handled this. 3) How do other synagogue libraries deal with items not returned after amble notice? Our system will send out 3 email reminders after the due date but, after that, we'd have to pursue the return "manually." I'm aware of the social and political sensitivities in a temple community – you don't want to alienate an active member or a big donor over a missing $5 paperback – but I also want folks to take the library seriously. I've considered several options, from follow-up email, phone calls or USPS mail, asking for return or $$$ for replacement. Other libraries I've worked in had the means of billing users for replacing books not returned, but I don't think that's an option hear. Again, this is something I'll need to consult with internally – with the board, in this case – but I'd like to have an idea how other synagogue libraries approach this in order to come to them with a proposed policy. If you reply to me directly, I will summarize responses and share them with the list. Thanks in advance for your help. Lee Jaffe Temple Beth El (Aptos)
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