Re: [LM_NET] HIT: Overdue fines in the high school library (LONG)

[Shonda Brisco <sbrisco@GMAIL.COM>]

On a similar note....

We also charge overdue fines (at every level--- elementary, middle,
high school) but I'm considering some changes to the program to make
the library experience "less negative" (especially at the elementary
and middle school levels).  However, during the holidays I began
thinking of a possible program idea that I will try to implement next
year (especially during the gift-giving season)--- "library gift
cards."

The "library gift card" can be purchased for various amounts (between
$1 - $10) and addressed to specific individuals (parents can purchase
them for students; teachers can purchase them as "rewards"; students
can purchase them for their friends).  If a student has a "library
gift card" they can apply the amount from the card to their overdue
library fines.  I'm also considering this as an option to pair with
the "birthday book club" at the elementary level.  This allows a
parent to purchase a card amount for their child to help them to
eliminate any overdue fees that might accrue AND funds collected will
go into a special budget to purchase new books for the library.

This might not be a unique idea but I thought it might be a way for
many students, teachers, or parents to purchase a "gift" that helps
both those forgetful / less responsible students and the library while
making the library experience "not-so-negative" for everyone involved.

-- 
Shonda Brisco, MLIS
District Librarian
Peaster ISD
Weatherford, TX 76086

Currently reading:  "Tested: One American School Struggles to Make the
Grade" by Linda Perlstein

Digital Bookends wiki / blog:
http://digitalbookends.pbwiki.com
http://shonda.edublogs.org/
sbrisco@gmail.com

Resources for Texas School Librarians:
http://txschoollibrarians.ning.com/
http://txschoollibrarians.wikispaces.com/

"Digital Resources" columnist
School Library Journal

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