[Libs-Or] public library telephone use-what's your policy?

[Leah Griffith]

We don't have a pay phone either at Newberg.   We basically do the same thing, asking people to limit their calls to the need for a ride or other quick situation.   We haven't had a huge problem with it and find it to be both a customer service as well as a safety issue as most of those who use the phone are kids calling for rides.

Leah
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Leah M. Griffith
Director,   Newberg Public Library

From: libs-or-bounces at listsmart.osl.state.or.us [mailto:libs-or-bounces at listsmart.osl.state.or.us] On Behalf Of dan cawley
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 9:50 AM
To: libs-or at listsmart.osl.state.or.us
Subject: [Libs-Or] public library telephone use-what's your policy?

our new library does not have a pay telephone.  the nearest land-line is across the street at the swimming pool.  it's not uncommon for patrons to request use of the library telephone.

our unofficial policy is this:

we dial the number, hand over the receiver, and ask that the conversation be limited to 60 seconds.

there is disagreement among the staff if this is a service the public library should provide.

what is your policy on patron use of library telephones?  also, if you have a policy forbidding library telephone use, when do you make an exception?

we serve a population of around 7,000.  our old library was something out of mayberry r.f.d. we have a reputation of providing exceptional customer service.  however, the new facility is much, much busier and, consequently, we find the need to rethink some of our previous policies.

any and all input is appreciated...

dan cawley
seaside public library



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