The Middleton Public Library in Wisconsin implemented a new policy for handling damaged materials where library patrons can share a picture of the culprit instead of paying a fine. The library understands that books can look appealing to pets and young children, leading to instances of damage. The policy encourages patrons to submit a photo of the culprit responsible for the damage, with four “chompers” already taking advantage of the option. The first culprit, Daisy, chewed on a copy of “The Guest” by B.A. Paris, followed by Quik, Ward, and Sky, who all caused damage to various books. This policy was inspired by another library offering to waive fines in exchange for a photo of a cat, and the Middleton Public Library hopes it will create a positive and lasting relationship with patrons.
Deputy library director Katharine Clark explained that while the Middleton Public Library no longer charges late fees for overdue materials, they do charge for lost or damaged items, prompting the idea for the fine forgiveness program. The library typically sees about two books a month that suffer damage from pets, and the new policy has helped showcase the “offenders” responsible for the damage. By offering patrons the chance to share a photo of the culprit, the library aims to create a positive and lasting relationship with patrons by demonstrating understanding and empathy towards accidents that can occur with library materials. The library believes that this approach can help dispel the reputation of libraries being places of sternness and punishment.
The photo option has not only been popular with social media followers but has also had additional benefits for library patrons. By presenting the photo option to distraught patrons, library staff can create a positive and lasting relationship with them, showing understanding and empathy for accidents that can occur. The featured “chomper” Sky garnered significant attention on social media, with the Facebook post being shared nearly 500 times and many people defending Sky’s actions. Some users humorously suggested that Sky’s actions were understandable, given the frustration with the book “Iron Flame,” while others expressed interest in following the library’s Facebook page for more photos of dogs. The positive response to the photo option illustrates how initiatives like this can help libraries engage with their communities in fun and innovative ways.
While the policy has been mainly focused on damage caused by dogs so far, the library looks forward to the diversity of animals that may be featured in the future. By incorporating humor and understanding into their approach to damaged materials, the Middleton Public Library is working to create a welcoming and positive environment for patrons. The policy not only offers an alternative to fines but also serves as a way to showcase the library’s understanding and empathy towards patrons and their pets. By adapting the fine forgiveness program and featuring photos of the culprits responsible for damaged materials, the library hopes to change perceptions of libraries as strict and punitive institutions and instead foster a relationship of trust and understanding with the community.
Overall, the Middleton Public Library’s innovative policy for handling damaged materials by offering patrons the option to share a photo of the culprit has been well-received by the community. By showcasing a lighthearted and understanding approach to accidents involving library materials, the library aims to create a positive and lasting relationship with patrons. The policy not only provides an alternative to fines but also serves as a way to engage with the community in a humorous and empathetic manner. Through initiatives like this, libraries can continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs and expectations of their patrons, while also cultivating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
