University of Guelph Library
Effective: March 2006
Rationale
For many months, students have complained to library staff about library users who "park" their belongings at a computer workstation to reserve that station as they come and go throughout the day, leaving the computer unoccupied yet unavailable to other users. We are implementing this policy due to the heavy demand for computers in McLaughlin Library and OVC Learning Commons.
Sharing computers benefits all — no parking permitted!
The Policy
Personal belongings left unattended at a public computer (or other public electronic equipment) for more than 15 minutes will be removed and held securely at the Circulation and Interlibrary Services Desk. The computer equipment in question will then be made available to the next person waiting in line.The policy applies to all electronic library equipment, including desktop computers, microform readers, and TV / VCRs. It does not apply to Library laptops signed out by students, or to non-electronic equipment like study carrels.
Complaint procedure
Complaints may be made in person at a library service desk or by phone. By phone dial 519-824-4120 ext 53617 and select option 2 from the menu ("personal belongings left unattended at a computer"). Library staff will complete a complaint form when contacted by a Library user.
Security of belongings
- The Library's Facilities Services staff will be responsible for securing belongings.
- All items will be recorded on an inventory form and placed into a security bag one item at time.
- The form and belongings shall be held by the Circulation and Interlibrary Services Desk for safekeeping until they have been identified and claimed.
Returning secured items
- The owner must provide a detailed description of materials listed on the form.
- The contents of the security bag shall be checked against the itemized security form.
- The owner shall initial each itemized line to signify receipt of the item.
- Items not claimed within 30 days will be treated as lost and found and disposed of according to established procedures.
Contact
Kelly Bertrand, Associate Director, Organizational Services or Kirk Sprague, Manager, Facilities Services