What not to do: installment 1

Sometimes, we damage things. It happens to every one, don't worry! But when that thing doesn't belong to you...then it gets messy. If it's a library book, please do not try to fix it yourself! The library has trained professionals to deal with damaged books and other materials (and most of the time they can fix it!). Usually, trying to mend a damaged library book yourself leads to more damage because common household products aren't meant for books (this is why special vendors make money off of libraries: they have special tape, special glue, special adhesives, etc.--all meant for book repairs). Also, most libraries will charge for materials that are returned damaged.

Below are some examples of what not to do to library materials:

This book was returned with many many scribbles...I imagine a young child got a hold of it! Always keep library materials up and away from curious youngsters and pets: turning your back for even a minute can lead to a damaged book! (I've seen many scribbles in a variety of pen, marker, pencil, etc.)

This book had pages falling out of it...the library wouldn't have charged the patron for the pages falling out (spines break and pages come loose over time, especially with high usage that libraries tend to have on their books). Unfortunately, this patron tried to fix the book by stapling the pages back in. Instead of simple fix, this turned into a labor intensive project where the librarian had to obtain another copy of the book, photocopy the pages that had been damaged and adhere the new pages to the book. This method is a drain on resources and staff time, but was the only way to fix it. Also, we charged the patron for the damage that was done to the book...we wouldn't have if it would have been returned with the loose pages. :(