Damaged Item Best Practices

Mending (Local Items)

Check items out to XYZMENDING (where XYZ is your library code) when the damage can be repaired or needs to be assessed by another staff member.

Damaged (Other Libraries)

For items that do not belong to your library and need repair:

• Check the item out to the DAMAGED user.
• Place a note with the item (do not use tape) indicating:
  • The specific damage
  • Your name
  • Your library name
• Return the item via statewide delivery.

Damaged Beyond Repair

If a Patron Damages an Item:

• Mark the item as Claims Lost on the patron’s account.
• The patron will be billed for the replacement cost.
• Once the bill is paid in full, the library director and/or designee will receive a monthly email notification.

If you receive an item from another library that was damaged in transit and cannot be repaired:

1. Contact the owning library immediately.
2. The owning library should then:
   • Check the item out to their XYZDISCARD user.
   • Submit a claim through the State Library’s Customer Service Form.
3. The owning library may request the item be returned; however, do not return items that could damage other materials (e.g., wet or moldy items).

Resources

• Working with Damaged Items Knowledge Base Article
• Procedure for Items Damaged Beyond Repair
• Special Users: Mending, Missing, Discard, etc.