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List:       publib
Subject:    Library card registration (fwd)
From:       Oak Lawn Public Library <jimcasey () CLASS ! ORG>
Date:       1996-04-29 19:54:28
Message-ID: Pine.3.89.9604291920.I3600-0100000 () nysernet ! org
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Sender: Oak Lawn Public Library <jimcasey@CLASS.ORG>
Subject: Re: Library card registration

In the rural county library where I was director, we took the patrons ID 
when they filled out the application for a library card, but did not ask 
for references.  On the other hand, the newly registered patron could not 
check out books immediately.  We mailed the card to their home address on 
the same day and once the patron received the card, they could come back 
and begin checking out books.  The mailing of the card was, in effect, a 
verification that the address had to be correct or it would not arrive.

Another way to verify patron information was to check the "criss-cross" 
directory to see if the phone number and address corresponded.  We also 
occasionally called the patron's own number to verify that they did apply 
for the card.  Your local community probably has a "Polk City Directory" and
possibly a "criss-cross".  These proved to be handy at a Circulation Desk 
for verifications.

Good Luck!

James B. Casey -- These are my own views as a public library administrator.

On Fri, 26 Apr 1996, LEILA CARTER wrote:

>         I work in a library that serves a rural county with a small
> population. In order for a person to receive a library card, he/she must
> provide an ID, such as a driver's license, provide their own address and
> phone number and that of a reference.  Library staff call the given
> reference and the new patron in order to verify the phone number before the
> library card is issued.  The reference is required to help us locate the
> patron if he/she moves.
>         The problem is, this is taking so much staff time.  Staff members
> often have to make several phone calls before an applicant or reference is
> contacted.
>         I'm new in this job, and my director and the head of circulation
> have both informed me that we have had so many problems in the past with
> lost materials that this sort of checking is necessary.  There also were in
> the past
> many problems with people making up addresses, etc.
>         I'd appreciate hearing about library card application procedures in
> other libraries.
> 
> Leila Carter
> Assistant Director of Operations
> Screven-Jenkins Regional Library
> Email:  lcarter@mail.public.lib.ga.us
> 
> 
> 
> 

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