Penn State Intercom......May 23, 2002

Library announces
lending code changes

To provide an efficient method for the collection of outstanding charges and satisfy requirements outlined by the University auditors, the University Libraries have announced a plan for automatic payroll deduction of outstanding fees. Similar to the plan used by the University's Parking Office at University Park, the plan will deduct outstanding library charges not paid on time from the staff member's paycheck. The Libraries' lending code will adopt the change beginning June 1 for all library locations excluding Hershey, Dickinson and Penn College.

Beginning late May and early June, faculty and other employees currently registered with the University Libraries will receive an e-mail asking permission to deduct fees owed the Libraries. The process, done electronically via the Web, requires the user's Access Account ID and password and asks the applicant to check the box labeled, "Yes, I accept these terms."

Acceptance of the new lending policy is necessary to retain Libraries borrowing privileges.

According to Rosann Bazirjian, assistant dean for University Libraries Technical and Access Services, "The new process will also help to keep books from the collection in circulation by creating outcomes for the user that will ensure timely return of books or will provide for replacement funds."

Prior to payroll deduction, the patron will receive an e-mail notice from the Libraries that describes the charges. There will be ample opportunity to submit payment or inquire about the charge. The new lending code stipulates that for lost materials, if payment is not received for replacement costs within 18 months from notification that the money is due at the Libraries, payment will be payroll deducted. For all other fees, if payment is not received within 60 days, payment will be payroll deducted.

For information, e-mail Sally Kalin at sgk1@psu.edu or Jack Sulzer at jsulzer@psu.edu, or call (814) 865-0404.

Back