Libraries can use a two-step process for managing accounts that have been sent to collections. The first step involves sending patron accounts to collections using collection agency processes in Polaris. When the first collection agency reports patron accounts that remain unsettled, the library can implement the second step, which involves securing these patron records to prevent library activity; reporting the accounts to the second collection agency; and releasing patron records when the second collection agency reports back to the library that the accounts have been settled. For details,
The following features can be used to manage patron accounts that were not settled by the first collection agency:
- Populate a patron record set by reading patron IDs from a column in an Excel spreadsheet. See Add records to a record set.
- Create an item record set from a patron record set. See Second Collection Agency Workflow.
- Secure patron records, preventing all circulation and payment activity and most other changes. You can secure an individual patron record using a Tools menu option on the Patron Status workform. Or, you can secure multiple patron records using patron bulk change. Patrons whose records are secured can search the Polaris PACs (PowerPAC, Mobile PAC, and Children's PAC). They can also log in and view their library accounts in the PowerPAC and Mobile PAC, but they cannot place holds, check out eContent, make payments, or change the address or phone 1 field in their patron accounts. See also:
- When the patron accounts have been resolved, release a secured patron record, allowing circulation activity and other changes. See Release a secured patron record.
Note:
Multiple patron records can be secured using bulk change, but secured records cannot be released using bulk change.