What or who is Unique Management Services?

Unique Management Services (UMS) is a well-respected, professional agency specializing in material recovery services for libraries. They are based in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Their web site is at www.unique-mgmt.com.

UMS works exclusively with libraries. They understand that libraries are unique and need a special kind of collection service that (1) emphasizes material recovery and patron goodwill and (2) is easy on the budget and easy on staff.

Why is this service necessary?

Library staff have very limited resources and time to devote to following up with delinquent patrons. By contracting services from UMS, the library intends to increase the amount of long-overdue items returned to the library and encourage patrons to settle delinquent accounts quickly.

Who else in this area uses UMS?

Several other public libraries in the DFW area use UMS, including Irving, Plano, and Denton Public Libraries. All of these libraries report very positive results, with an increased rate of return for overdue items and no negative feedback from patrons.

When did the Carrollton Public Library start using this service?

The first referrals where sent to UMS on September 6, 2004.

Who will be affected by this service?

The vast majority of library patrons will not be affected in any way by this service.

Only patrons who have accrued fees in excess of $50 and have not contacted the library or otherwise attempted to settle their accounts will be referred to UMS.

When are patrons referred to UMS?

Patrons who have not contacted the library or otherwise attempted to settle their accounts will be referred to UMS two weeks (14 days) after the library’s billing notice is sent.

What happens when a patron is referred to UMS?

A patron will be referred to UMS only if they have more than $50 in outstanding fees and have not contacted the library to make arrangements to settle the account.

Two weeks after the library’s final notice is mailed, and if the patron does not contact the library, the patron’s address, phone numbers, and fine information is sent electronically to UMS. Also, a $10 manual charge is added to the patron’s account to cover the cost of the UMS service.

UMS will mail two letters, then attempt to contact the patron by phone. If the patron still does not settle their account, a final notice is sent. Thirty days after the final notice is sent, if the account is still unresolved, UMS sends a negative report on the patron to credit reporting agencies.

What happens with minor patrons?

The person listed as the parent/guardian on minor patrons’ records will be the person who will be contacted by UMS, and will be the person credit-reported if necessary.

Is this just to collect money? What about the library materials?

The direct goal of the UMS service is to encourage patrons to return materials to the library. If patrons return billed materials, the replacement amount is adjusted down to the maximum overdue fine, or less if the situation warrants.

Regardless of other arrangements the library makes with the patron, the library will always collect the $10 UMS fee. This action will help ensure that UMS’s service remains revenue neutral.