LOST AND FOUND POLICY AND PROCEDURES
LOST AND FOUND POLICY
Colgate University Library is not responsible for items left behind by patrons of the library, but the Library would like to provide a convenient mechanism for assisting in the return of items to the owner. The Library Lost and Found Policy establishes a procedure regarding the handling and return of items found in the library, the disposition of unclaimed items, and a mechanism to track items reported lost.
LOST AND FOUND PROCEDURES
- All personal items found in Case Library should be turned in to the Borrowing Services Circulation Desk. Misappropriation of such items may be treated as theft and may be reported to Campus Safety.
- Staff will record dates of items turned in of value such as wallets, purses, keys, backpacks, and electronic devices on post it notes placed with the valuables. Information requested will help to ensure items are returned to the rightful owners.
- A Circulation Services staff member will make every attempt to contact the owner if sufficient identification is on the item. The Circulation Services staff will check the Lost and Found locked drawers when an item has been reported lost.
- Items of value will be kept in a secure location. At the end of each semester all items will be turned over to Campus Safety.
- All other lost and found articles will be kept in the Circulation Desk area in a designated place.
- In order to claim a found item, the owner must describe the item as closely as possible. After ownership is established as well as possible, the item may be returned immediately to the owner.
- Items in Lost and Found which are not claimed by the end of each semester will be disbursed. Items of value will be taken to the Campus Safety Office. Non-reusable items will be disposed. All reusable items will be appropriately donated.
PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING LOST ITEMS
A staff log book is used at the Circulation desk for patrons who report missing items. A person may list a lost item along with their name, email or phone number. A staff member will contact the person if the item is turned in to the library.