LOAN and SUSPENSION POLICY

LOAN POLICY
Our book loan period is six (6) weeks. We ask that you try to return your books within this time period. No fines for overdue items will be levied. However, borrowers are urged to observe the loan period so materials are available for other readers.

Reader Advisors will work with you to establish a borrowing limit. A borrower in good standing may have their limit of books in any combination of formats (Braille, cassette) checked out to them at any one time. Once a borrower reaches the maximum number of books, no additional books will be sent until books are returned. For each item returned, a replacement will be sent to the borrower. In special circumstances, a borrower may request an increase in the maximum number of books.

It is important for you to remember that, like the books, the equipment you receive from us is also ON LOAN. The equipment is property of the federal government. Its use is restricted to active users of the recorded books issued by the Library of Congress, National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS). You may use the equipment to play tapes or records you have from any source, but only if you are also receiving tapes and/or records from Braille and Talking Book Library (B&TBL). Eligible readers who borrow books from the B&TBL accept responsibility for using books with reasonable care, returning materials to B&TBL according to established loan policies, and not losing or damaging materials through negligence. Violation of this policy may result in suspension of some or all library services (see Suspension Policy).

Borrowers may NOT lend books, magazines, or equipment to other persons.

Repeated verbal abuse of B&TBL staff by a borrower may also result in suspension of library services (see Suspension Policy).


SUSPENSION POLICY
In the event of suspension, the following steps will be taken:
South Dakota B&TBL will first discuss the problem with the patron by telephone, followed by a warning letter summarizing the problem and the discussion. The borrower will be given the opportunity to respond.

If service violations recur, a second written communication will be sent to the borrower announcing immediate suspension. The earlier warning letter will be cited along with examples of subsequent violations. The borrower will be given the opportunity to reply within 30 days. Service may be suspended for a period up to, but not exceeding, six (6) months. A specific date for resumption of service will be included in the second written communication.

Upon resumption of service, a letter of notification be sent to the borrower. The letter will also include a reminder that further violations may result in another suspension.