[Libs-Or] keeping patron info up to date

[Carol Dinges]

Our resident patron cards expire every 2 years, at which time we ask patrons to show their proof of current address (usually a drivers license) and ask if their phone numbers and email addresses are still correct.  We set out ILS to display a message 30 days before expiration so that we can let patrons know to bring their ID next time they come, and an email reminder can be sent, as well.  While this takes some staff time, the payoff in having accurate information is well worth it.

Carol Dinges
Lebanon Public Library

From: Libs-Or [mailto:libs-or-bounces at listsmart.osl.state.or.us] On Behalf Of Adam Carlson
Sent: Friday, December 16, 2016 2:18 PM
To: libs-or at listsmart.osl.state.or.us
Subject: [Libs-Or] keeping patron info up to date

Hello everyone,

Our library system is discussing using expiration dates on patron records in order to ensure accuracy. However, this can lead to more staff intervention time to make necessary changes as well as patron frustrations when they are blocked from further checkout until they "renew" their registrations.

I am curious as to your experiences with this. What works? What doesn't? Is it worth the effort? How do you go about keeping your patrons records updated? How often do you try and renew records? How often do you purge old, unused accounts? Etc.

Any info and advice you'd like to share would be much appreciated.

Thank you,

Adam Carlson
Circulation Supervisor
McMinnville Public Library
(503) 435-5556

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