There has been some confusion regarding fine-free libraries and reciprocal borrowing. For example, can fine-free libraries waive fines from other libraries? Should they instead have a patron return to their home library for resolution?
The recent member survey and subsequent analysis did not provide a clear member preference, so the SHARE Circulation & Resource Sharing Committee and SHARE staff looked at this question from these angles:
- What would cause the least disruption or change from existing policy?
- What would cause the least amount of work for member libraries?
- What would be in line with previous recommendations and SHARE philosophy?
- We want to encourage the best possible customer service for all SHARE patrons.
- We place a high emphasis on library autonomy and the right for libraries to manage their own patrons.
- We do not want to encourage patrons “library shopping” or put our member libraries in conflict with each other.
Please review the proposal and submit member comments by December 7, 2022. All member comments will be reviewed, and a decision will be made at the next SHARE Circulation & Resource Sharing Committee meeting on December 8, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. All members are welcome to attend.