It is incredibly important that you follow closing procedures when it's your day to shut down the library. We had an issue recently with a patron coming up right at Circulation's closing and some procedures were overlooked. I want to make sure you all understand how to handle it if something similar happens again.
You are only to leave through the main doors at night. Do no use the back doors by the loading dock. Both you and the GA/librarian need to leave through the front doors at closing and make sure each door is properly latched when you leave. Tug on each and every door. This is the last opportunity to make sure locking the doors was not overlooked, which is crucial for protecting our property.
If a patron has an issue right at closing, you need to explain to them that the circulation desk is closed and they will need to return when a supervisor is available to address the issue. If they have a complaint about a fine, give them a fine appeal form to take with them. That will likely divert them from anger to action, and calm them down.
At closing it is really important that you keep focused and complete your procedures. It is absolutely ok for you to tell the patron that the desk has closed for the night and they will need to come back the next day. If you do not have the authority to help their situation, let them know who does and provide their business card. If they prevent you from closing right on time, it's ok. Take a minute to collect your thoughts and go back through the checklist again. Don't rush. It is crucial that the library is shut down properly each and every night.
Thank you!
Kym
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