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...that just because I work at a public library doesn't mean "I'll be happy to return your library materials for you"? Especially if that person has the time to give the said items to another person to give me to return, but they can't/won't make the time to take stuff back to the library themselves?
Just on my mind because it came up with my brother yesterday, and while I don't mind occasionally helping someone out, I also don't want to be responsible for returning someone else's library materials. (Among other things, I'm not allowed to check-in items that I'm returning)
"I'd prefer to not be responsible for items under your name. I'd just feel awful if something were to happen to them while in my care."
Or
"I'm sorry; over the years I've learned to make it a policy to not take responsibility for books signed out to others. I have enough on my plate keeping track of my own stuff. I'm sure you understand. "
Last edited by maciesmom; 06-15-2016 at 01:47 PM..
I work in a library...never been asked to return something from someone else. But I carry books back and forth almost every day, so I really don't see why I would say no.
Maybe it has more to do with that particular brother than the actual favor he asked of you? Did he expect you to waive his fines?
If something happened to the books on my watch, I get the employee discount.
If there's a drive-through or drop-off return box accessible from the car, I'd let them know that. If it's once in a great while, it might be OK. As a regular thing, I'd advise them to sign up for library homebound services, or check the schedule for the readmobile (if there is one). Books & other materials can sometimes be returned to public schools in the area, or even local college or university libraries - they kinda watch out for each other.
But you should check that in your service area, before volunteering that information. As a regular thing for the able-bodied, I'd say No, as politely as I could. Rinse & repeat, as needed.
Encourage your brother to use the book drop/depository. I worked in a library for over 20 years, and i almost never was asked by anyone to do that. I have heard of rude people asking library workers who were walking into the library to return their books, as they drove into the parking lot though! Beyond rude.
Put your returns in the book depository. It isn't that hard.
Tell your brother that you are not allowed to check books in that you bring in. Tell him he must use the book depository or bring them in himself. He is being unreasonable. If you tell him now, maybe he won't ask again.
Were this my brother, my response would be "Do I look like a free book return delivery service? Return your own <descriptive word> books." However, we are blunt like that and no hard feelings. He'd also just take his books back. The only time I'd be ok with making an exception would be if he were sick or something like that.
I wouldn't mind returning my siblings or close friend's books.
It doesn't cost you money, you are already there, and those few minutes of your life you lose are worth helping them out.
I think the OP explained why she didn't want to continually return books for someone else. And not every one who works in the library, works the check out desk. It might be inconvenient to walk from one's department to the desk or depository to return someone else's books.
If you check it out, it is up to you to return it. I've learned a new word recently: adulting. It is adulting to take responsibility for your own actions.
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The quality of mercy
