""Netflix"-style library fees

Some of the staff members at PVLD have been tossing around the idea of a Netflix-style book delivery service for some time, but have found it is more complicated than it seems both in terms of the back-end software, the staffing required, and the logistics of a large-scale mailing operation.

This article about the Hayward Public Library tells of a somewhat different approach - adopting the Netflix pre-payment financial model, but not the mail delivery service.  Essentially the Hayward Library plans to offer people the option of paying a flat monthly fee for the ability to have a fixed number of items checked out at one time for as long as they want to keep them without further overdue fees.  The Hayward Library Director indicates that they think this service will significantly increase their fee revenue while offering a convenience to customers.

Interesting!

I think Hayward uses the same back-end Integrated Library System that we do, so if they can make it work we could too.

If we offered an option like this would you use it?

Comments

[Genesis Hansen]

We looked at Netflix-style delivery, too, but the mailing aspect was really problematic. I like this approach a lot - it seems much easier to implement.

[Ali O]

Wow! Very interesting. I'd like to read more about how the program is implemented (especially publicity) and, once they get some data, an evaluation of the program.

[Oleg K.]

When it comes to entertainment items, the Netflix model is certainly something to consider, but for primarily educational materials I'm not sure.

Since the library has a limited number of items on certain topics (especially those pertaining to oft-assigned research papers), it's useful to be able to put a hold on them or, at least, estimate when those items will be back.

Also, as long as patrons are being charged for a library card and the primary motivation being revenue, why bother with a Netflix-based model and not a simple subscription-based one (a yearly or monthly fee, no limit on items checked out, due dates but little to no overdue fines)?