Responses to Book Checkout Question

[Kathy Hutton <khutton@pen.k12.va.us>]

LM_Netters,
   Early last week I asked if you considered book checkout to be a
"right" or a "privilege" and if you felt that right should ever be
denied--for any reason.  I was quite pleasantly surprised to receive
more than 50 responses.
   Your answers varied quite a lot, but I will try to summarize to
provide a little feedback.
   Most people (more than 45) considered book checkout to be a
privilege, but a privilege with responsibilities.  Of those remaining,
some felt it was both, one felt it was a right that becomes a privilege
that may be lost.  One felt that it is most definitely a right--a vital
part of educating children, never to be viewed as a privilege.
   As far as denying book checkout, some people addressed only the issue
of overdue books as a reason, others spoke to the question of unruly
behavior and some discussed both reasons.  Most (44) of you who
responded felt that checkout should be denied if a student has
outstanding books.  As soon as the outstanding books are returned, the
student should be free to borrow more.  Many suggested that they let a
student select a book to be held at the circulation desk until
outstanding books are returned. Only 4 suggested that they don't deny
checkout, regardless of overdues.
    Where unruly behavior is concerned, opinions were about 50/50.  Some
felt that poor behavior may suggest a lack of respect for others or the
possibility that library materials may not be treated carefully and,
therefore, withhold the opportunity to checkout a book.  Most suggest
that if a student is misbehaving checkout of materials is
postponed--that is, the student may return at a time without the class
to borrow a book. Others suggest that behavior and book checkout are two
separate issues.  Therefore, poor behavior should not be tied to
borrowing privileges.  One suggested employing bibliotherapy to correct
unruly behavior.
   All in all, I was impressed with the response and answers.  You
certainly provided me with some "food for thought."  Thanks to all.
   Kathy Hutton