Events

Debt Management Changes

Media Release: Tougher new measures to reduce library debt, 12 January 2007.

Questions and answers

Q: Why am I getting an automated message?
A: We contact you by telemessage at 3 days overdue and by letter at 8 days if you don’t have an email address
Q: Can I have my phone number removed? I don’t want a telemessage!
A: We require your phone number as part of the conditions of library membership. However, if you register your email address with us, email contact will be made instead of a telemessage.
Q: My items are only 3 days overdue why are you harassing me?
A: Many customers have asked for earlier notification of overdue items, and we don’t want you to build up unmanageable debt.
A: The earlier return of items means more choice for more customers
A: It is a courtesy we provide to help you manage your account
Q: Why are you doing this?
A: Because we need to reduce the Library’s amount of current outstanding debt
A: Because we need to be more accountable to ratepayers who fund the library. Most items are issued free for 4 weeks.
Q: How will I be affected by the changes?
A: If you get your items back on time, you won’t notice any change!
A: We will be contacting you more frequently about overdue items
A: You may be referred to a debt collection agency if you owe $50 or more in fines or overdue items
Q: Why is my card blocked when I only owe 40c?
A: All debt must be paid within a month before you can use your card again.
Q: I use the self issue machine all the time, why haven’t I been told about these charges before?
A: Our self issue software has only recently been able to recognise debt owed for longer than one month
Q: How can I keep track of what I have out and when it’s due?
By checking the receipt you collect at issues
By checking your account online with a PIN or using Library Elf to receive notices by email or RSS. You can get a PIN by visiting any of our libraries or phoning 941-7923
By phoning the library on 941 7923
By emailing the library at library@ccc.govt.nz