Missing contents

Procedure—Handling Missing-Content Items -- (FLOW CHART)
Updated 8-2025

The library where the missing-content item is returned is responsible for handling that item, regardless of the owner of the item.

All libraries will put hub rings on their DVDs that indicate library and last 4 digits of the barcode if the library owns more than 1 copy. This makes it possible to find the right copy when the cover/barcode is missing.

Receive Incomplete Item in bookdrop:

  1. Look for a Wear & Tear sticker/stamp inside front cover
    1. If there isn’t a sticker/stamp, or sticker/stamp doesn’t mention missing bit, look up the patron before discharging. Remember the trick for looking up previous patron from bookdrop.
  2. Extend the due date 7 days from date incomplete part returned.
  3. Put note in patron record:
    1. Item is being held at XX Library
    2. What is missing
    3. FirstnameLastInit – Date patron was called
  4. Contact Patron about missing piece and warn them that they will be billed at 30 days from new due date if missing part not returned.
  5. Fill out the Problem Item Form
  6. Physically put item on Damaged/MS-Content shelf with the form.
  7. Patron is automatically billed for lost item at 30 days after new due date.
  8. Item stays at Checkout Library for 15 more days to allow item to come back after bill sent

At 52 days past the returned date, send the bit that you have back to the Owning Library with the form. Refer patron to owning library for any further information/communication.