Over threshold and Overridden accounts use of eResources

During COVID, we opened over threshold and overridden accounts to be able to use Libby, hoopla, and Kanopy to allow guests who could not pay online the ability to continue using our resources if they were unable to visit in person to pay with cash due to COVID.

• When staff began using Aspen more, we had the question why over threshold accounts were able to check out Libby, hoopla, and Kanopy items in Aspen.
• After doing some researching, we realized we still had our pre-COVID parameters where anyone could access our eResources.
• Since 2020, we have gone fine free, lowering barriers for guests. Other than the rare guest with a large number of overdue fines on technology, experience passes, or ILL, no guest will lose access due to overdue fines.
• We want to provide consistent expectations for digital and physical materials.

Janeal Walker and Tricia Andrews pulled stats of usage from the past six months. There are about 1,500 accounts that are over threshold or overridden that are using Libby, hoopla, or Kanopy.

On January 1, over threshold and overridden accounts will no longer be able to use eResources.

Here is our timeline:

• Early December: MAC will notify over threshold / overridden guests via Patron Point and social media
• Beginning of January: 48 hour banner in Aspen what's happening
• January 3: Another email to guests

As a reminder, our events where account go over threshold include reaching the Claims Limit, $50 or more in fines, or when an item goes Lost.

If you have questions, please contact Janeal Walker or Tricia Andrews.