So, today I had to begin putting on my least favorite librarian hat. It’s the hat I dread wearing each May-- the only part of my job I don’t absolutely love. I began the transition to… Fine Collector. I know it’s a necessary part of the job. I know the process allows us to put at least 100 extra books on our shelves each year, which is so important, especially in this economy. But it is not a hat I like to wear. It doesn’t look good or feel good on me.
We work so hard in our profession to build a good rapport with our students and give them a sanctuary in the school. I feel like the fine collection process wipes away much of that. Leaving my students with that image of the library, and, dare I say it, me as a librarian, is not the way I like to go out for the summer. To make things a little better, I only actively seek out those who owe $1.00 or more, and I always greet with a smile, but still...
Yes, I’m teaching responsibility and the fact that there are consequences when borrowed items aren’t returned on time as promised. I even try to soften the blow by telling them I often owe fines to the public library, but that I eventually need to “take care of my business” just as they need to. It’s still hard. Especially when asking for it in this economy…
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Jen, I don't think you should be worried about this at all. The kids think badly of you nor do they dislike the library because of fine collection. As someone who gives the bills out to the kids and sees their impulsive response, most of the time they don't groan or complain and they understand it's their responsibility to pay since they didn't return books on time. -Katie G.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you can just recruit some student henchmen and give them a percent of the profit. :0)
ReplyDelete