8/19/2003 BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES Minutes

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i of the ear was on Millennium and used a different type of report. The figures from each had to be combined and it was somewhat like adding apples and oranges. -Borne data didn't transfer smoothly between the two systems, The MLC is aware of the urp rade ,process and realizes this year's data will be approximate. A second part of this report, which deals with finances, is due to the MBLC in October. Network Inns The upgrade to Millennium nnium has made all CLAMS libraries aware of the need for more standardization in loan rules and overdue fines. Formerly, both were tied to location and patron. Now both are triggered by the individual items loan rule. For example, a i l shp e patron-might get a Sandwich video, which goes out for two days instead of seven days and had a different fine rate than the Mashpee iter. This gets confusing and difficult for patrons to remember. we have discovered that having standardized policies throughout CLAMS makes it easier for patrons to go from one location to another and feel confident that they know what the loan rules are. Members also felt that some of, the limits were too punitive and prevented patrons from retuning items because the fines owed were more than they could-afford. They also voted to have a lover firm structure for children's items since they go out in larger quantities and the penalties could add up quickly.ly. As of October, the new loan periods and fine structures are: Material Types Loan periods Fines Maximum Books 14 days .10 day $3.00 Adult, $1.00 child Audiocassettes 14 days .10 day $3.00 Adult, $1.00 child 0 ,r Magazines 14 days x.10 day $NOAdult, $1.00 child Videos DVC s 7 days $1.00 $3.00 Adult &.child The Bourne Library had already lowered their maximum fines. They reported that they have been experiencing a greater rate of return for late items. It was noted at the old video maximum, five late videos would create a $50.00 overdue charge. This can be a great hardship for-many families. I think this will be.a positive step for patrons and hopefully rake getting late items back easier. Unreturned items would still be billed for the replacement costs.