Greenwich Free Library
December Staff and Volunteer Newsletter
Merry Holidays and Happy New Year
Putting more Free in the Greenwich Free Library
In November, we uncoupled computer privileges from late fees. When we really thought about how necessary computer access is to people looking for jobs, paying bills, dealing with agencies etc., we decided it ran counter to our service mission to block people's access because they returned some DVD's late.
Starting in January of 2016, we will stop charging new late fees. Old fines will still need to be payed and replacement costs for lost items will still be charged. Books, CD's and DVD's will still have due dates, we are just relying on our patrons to bring them back on time - which most already do - without the threat of fines. In July, we will take a look to see if there have been drastic changes to return rates. At that time, the Board of Trustees will decide whether to continue the policy.
How will this affect you at the desk? Not much. The Polaris system will simply not register new fines. Old fines will still be on patrons' records and need to be cleared up as usual. Reminder notices will still go out. There will be notices up that you may need to explain, so please make sure to look at what is posted on the circulation desk and talk with staff members if you need clarification.
Going fineless is an idea that not everyone on either the staff or board is totally excited about. That is why were are implementing it as an experiment. I see it as an opportunity to make our library more welcoming to those in our community for whom the fines on a bagful of late children's books or a couple of DVD's mean they are locked out. I don't think anybody should be locked out of the library for that.
Some of December's Volunteer Teachers
Denise Soucar came all the way from Saratoga to help with the Hour of Code
Elizabeth Cockey helped us all become artists,
Betsy Brander braved 31 children with frosting
Wireless Printing at Last!
As with all new things, there will be a period of adjustment as we get used to how this will work for us. I have complete confidence in our ability to make this a routine part of what we do.
Last Minute Shopping with Amazon Smile
Staying Safe in the Library
Los Angeles County Sheriff: Surviving an Active Shooter
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFQ-oxhdFjE
City of Houston: Run, Hide, Fight
Greenwich Free Library
Email: amiller@sals.edu
Website: www.greenwichfreelibrary.org
Location: 148 Main Street, Greenwich, NY, United States
Phone: (518) 692 7157
Facebook: facebook.com/GreenwichFreeLibrary