1975-1980 - Laserfiche WebLink

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February 25, 1974 Ms. Gail H. Carstens Branch Librarian Kashmere Gardens Branch 5411 Pardee Houston, Texas 77026 Dear Ms. Carstens: i am answering your letter for Mr. Medley concerning the "no fine" policy. We began this policy on November 1, 1970. A six months trial period was made to see if the amount of overdue books would increase significantly. The trial period proved to be a success and after the six months, the "no fine" system was put into effect. The staff and patrons alike have been more than pleased with the success of this system. fines: Now to the essential facts. First, we looked at the traditional reasons for having 1. To encourage the prompt return of materials. 2. Income for the library (really the City). 3. To punish law breakers (Yes, this is really a reason in the minds of some librarians and many city officials). Second, we asked ourselves If these reasons were really valid and /or effective: I. Statistics show (see below) that a large percentage of overdue books come in shortly after the first notice is sent. By the time that the second notice is sent, only a small percentage of books remain out. These are your real violators and problems. 2. We, and most public libraries do not get to keep fines anyway. Cities will argue that even though this is true, the fines are taken into consideration at budget time. Don't believe it. Anyway, are public libraries in business to generate revenues? 3. Punishment • no comment. After giving these things a lot of thought and laying a lot of groundwork with the Library Board, Mr. Medley made the decision to move ahead. He has never regretted that decision. -Below are somestatistics that were done right before and after the policy began.