Somerset County Library System (SCLS) is emphasizing the convenience of email notices as it discontinues an obsolete and expensive telephone notification system and tries to wean patrons away from getting their notices by US Mail. The cost-saving and efficiency changes will take effect on April 1.
Why are they making the change? “Everyone knows how postage rates keep climbing,” said Library Director Brian Auger. “But sending paper notices also requires more staff handling to ensure that customers have enough time to pick up their holds. Email notices go out automatically,” he added.
The twenty-year-old telephone notification system was a cost-saving innovation when it was introduced as an alternative to mailing notices. Now, with so many patrons choosing emails, it has become a target for cost cutting because fewer and fewer people use it and it costs some $1,000 a month regardless of use.
“While we know there are some customers who value the service, we just can’t justify the high costs it entails,” said Auger. “We’re confident that most will easily make the switch to email notices. We will accommodate those who cannot through paper notices.”
Those getting the Library’s email notices will not only get quick notification of when their holds are ready for pickup, but will also get friendly reminders BEFORE their materials are due. Patrons can often simply renew them on the spot, as long as others aren't waiting.
To help persuade people to make the switch to email notices, the Library will have a random drawing on April 15 for a Kindle Fire. Anyone with an email address on file with the Library will be eligible to win.
Questions? Call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
