Hardfacts about overdues

by Patsy Hansel and Robert Burgin
Library Journal
Vol. 108, No. 4, February 15, 1983

and

"More hardfacts on overdues"
by Robert Burgin and Patsy Hansel
Library Overdues: Analysis, Strategies, and Solutions to the problem, 1984, pp. 5-18.

and

"Library overdues: an update"
by Robert Burgin and Patsy Hansel
Library and Archival Security
Vol. 10, No. 2, 1990, pp. 51-75.

In 1981 and 1983, Patsy Hansel and Robert Burgin asked 58 public libraries in North Carolina and 89 public libraries nationwide, about their checkout policies and procedures and how many overdues they had. Statistical analysis found the following correlations.

The use of the word "significantly" below means the measured effect was large enough to ensure the connection between the practice and more or fewer overdues was real and not likely to be a mere coincidence. These connections are mere "correlations." This means that the practice may not directly cause more or fewer overdues.

The following practices were correlated with significantly fewer overdues.
• Automated circulation systems
• Loaning materials less than 14 days and more than 28 days
• Mailing the first overdue notice within 14 days past the due date
• Sending only one notice or more than four notices
• Restricting patrons’ borrowing privileges
• Charging fines per overdue notice rather than per day
• Making any change in return policies

The following practices were correlated with significantly more overdues.
• Telephoning patrons

The following practices were correlated with getting back books.
• Replacing the final notice with a bill
• Using a collection agency

The following practices may be correlated, but we can’t be sure without more research.
• Charging fines may reduce overdues in the short run, i.e., within a year of due date.
• Not charging fines may reduce overdues in the long run, i.e., items kept over a year.
• High fines may reduce overdues more than small fines.
• Taking patrons to court may not be effective in reducing overdues.