| Patron Handbook |
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| Loan Policy |
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Loan Policy: Individual Service
TBABS has established a loan policy covering the responsibilities of the library and its patrons. This policy has been reproduced in this section for your reference.
The following policies govern the circulation of books, magazines and equipment to eligible blind and/or physically disabled readers registered with Talking Book and Braille Services at the Oregon State Library.
Eligible readers who borrow materials from the TBABS accept responsibility for using materials with reasonable care, returning them to TBABS according to the policies stated below, and not losing or damaging library materials or equipment through negligence. Violation of this policy can result in suspension of some or all library services.
Policy
Braille books, recorded books, large print books, and specialized playback equipment will be loaned by this library to eligible registered readers without charge, and this library will keep records of all such loans. The borrower should notify the library of temporary or permanent changes of address or a desire to discontinue the service.
Borrowers may not lend library books, magazines, or equipment to other persons. The borrower will ensure that books, magazines, and equipment being returned to the library by free matter are delivered into the hands of the United States Postal Service by being placed in a mailbox or delivered to the post office. No postage is needed to return any TBABS materials or equipment. All preprinted TBABS-mailing cards and labels used to return materials are marked Free Matter for the Blind to allow free mailing.
Equipment
Equipment necessary to read the recorded materials may be borrowed on extended loan for as long as the borrower meets National Library Service eligibility requirements, and the borrower reads at least one book or NLS magazine per year provided by the library. If either of these two conditions is not met, the equipment must be returned to TBABS.
It is the borrower's responsibility to ensure equipment is properly cared for and kept free of damaging substances or infestation. In the event that a machine ceases to function properly or needs repair, it should be returned to TBABS for repair and/or replacement. Under no circumstances should a borrower attempt to repair the playback equipment or accessories.
Books
The loan period for books is six weeks. Borrowers are encouraged to return each book as they finish reading it, to ensure a smooth flow of books to the reader. To return a book, flip the mailing card over and reinsert it into the slot on the container. No fines for overdue books will be levied; however, borrowers are urged to observe the six-week loan period, so books can be available for other readers.
A minimum and maximum number of books in each format (Braille, cassette, and large print) to be checked out to the borrower at one time is determined by the library, based on the borrower's reading record and as desired by the borrower. The library reserves the right to limit readers' maximum number of books to ensure adequate service and collection availability for all patrons.
The library may lower a borrower’s maximum number of books if books are not returned on time. Once a borrower reaches their maximum number of books, no additional books will be sent until books are returned. Borrowers should call TBABS to adjust their minimum and maximum number of books to meet the borrower's individual reading needs. Unless otherwise requested by the borrower, for each book returned in each format, a replacement book will be sent to the borrower. Borrowers may choose to receive only specific books they request.
Borrowers are urged to rewind cassettes and return each container with its original contents. Damaged items should be marked as Defective on the return-mailing card prior to returning the item. DO NOT rewind a damaged cassette tape, simply turn the tape upside down and return it to the book container. Please make sure to mark Defective on the return-mailing card so our inspectors will be notified the book is damaged. Patrons should call TBABS if they would like to receive a replacement copy for a damaged book.
Magazines
Magazines are provided to borrowers in two ways. Magazines that are mailed in containers bearing a return-mailing card are circulated to multiple readers through this library. These magazines should be returned to TBABS by flipping the card over and reinserting it into the slot on the mailing container. The loan period for magazines bearing return mailing cards is two weeks. Other magazines are mailed to borrowers directly from the producers. These magazines will have no return card, only a borrower address label affixed to the container. These magazines should not be returned to TBABS.
In the event that any of these policies are violated repeatedly, the borrower's service may be suspended for a period of time after being given a written warning and an oppurtunity to reply. If after reinstatement of service, abuse continues, service may be suspended again.
Service Suspension
In case of repeated verbal abuse of library staff by a borrower, TBABS may suspend in-person or telephone service to that borrower.
In the event of suspension, the following steps will be taken:
1. The library will first discuss the problem noted with the patron by telephone or in person, then will send a letter which summarizes the discussion and the problem and provides an opportunity for the patron to reply. If service abuse recurs, a second written communication will be sent to the patron citing the earlier letter, listing examples of subsequent abuse, giving the patron an opportunity to reply by a certain date, and then suspending the service for a stated period (up to 6 months). A specific date for resumption of service will be included in this letter.
2. Once notified of service suspension, it will be the borrower's responsibility to contact TBABS for resumption of service on or after the date specified in the suspension notice. Any further recurrences will result in another suspension of service as it relates to the documented abuse.
Any questions regarding TBABS service or policies may be answered by calling TBABS on our toll-free number, 1-800-452-0292.
The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress, has approved this loan policy.
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