Library hires agency to collect overdue materials

HUBBARD -- The Hubbard Public Library has hired a collection agency for the return of overdue materials.
The cost of the 90-day trial of Unique Management Services will be passed on to each patron whose account will be handled by the agency, said Ruth Mizik, library director.
After the 90 days, the library will decide if Unique Management, of Jeffersonville, Ind., which specializes in library collections, will handle collections permanently.
Mizik said the agency will concentrate on patrons who have materials that are four to six weeks overdue, have received two telephone calls and a letter of notification from the library, and who owe more than $25 in fines.
Materials not returned by patrons are not available for others to borrow. Also, if materials are not returned, money from the library budget is used to replace them.
Mizik said the money could be better used to buy new items for patrons.
The library sponsored an amnesty day in July that encouraged patrons to return items without charge.
Patrons will still be notified when their materials are overdue and be given ample time to return materials before being turned over for collection, the library director added.