Gentle Nudge® Material Recovery
We partner exclusively with libraries to effectively recover materials - along with fines and fees as desired - while preserving patron goodwill with their library. With almost 30 years of experience, we understand the particular needs and concerns of libraries. Our process saves the library time through extensive automation while remaining budget-friendly, thanks to the considerable fiscal value of asset recovery.
What is
GENTLE NUDGE®
Libraries provide a crucial service to their communities, but in turn, depend on the patronage of the community to function. Therefore, our Gentle Nudge® process has been designed to meet the unique needs of libraries by effectively working to recover assets while preserving patron dignity and goodwill.
Did you know?
For every 4 overdue patrons, 3 people are waiting for materials on hold.
Overdue patrons are having a bigger impact than you may think. We took a look at some of our partner libraries, and found a surprising fact: overdue patrons are having a ripple effect on other patrons. On average, for every four overdue patrons, they have materials that three other patrons are waiting on in the library.
How big is the problem for your library? Check out our calculator tool to see.
The Process Includes
Letters
Specifically designed letters are sent out to respectfully remind library patrons of their materials and financial obligations.
Calls
Our specialists are trained to call patrons, from our contact center, to remind them of their materials all while remaining cordial.
Skip Tracing
We make use of the best skip tracing services to identify up-to-date addresses and phone number information.
Patron Engagement
Our goal is for all library patron contact to be influenced by the golden rule – “Treat others the way you would like to be treated.”
ILS Integration
We can provide automated tools that streamline the entire process. This means little to no staff time is needed!
Comprehensive
Our processes are spread across 90-150 days. We provide consistent, friendly reminders to return materials.
From the Library
“I have been very pleased with using Unique’s services and wish to thank you for all that you have done to help our library with our recovery efforts on materials. The amount you recovered is half of my yearly budget for materials. As a small library with limited staff and limited resources, I don’t know what I would do without Unique.”
Renae Rountree, Director, Washington County Public Library
Gentle Nudge® Features
Focus on Material Recovery
The process focuses on the recovery of overdue materials; not just a balance to get materials back to the library.
Budget Neutral
Submit accounts using parameters and the service will soon pay for itself. Guaranteed in writing as part of the Unique agreement.
No Additional Staff Time Required
Once set-up, the process becomes completely automated. This is allowed by Unique’s partnership with the ILS vendors.
Protect Patron Goodwill
All contacts are designed to be friendly and with the goal of the patron returning to the library with no effect to the library’s goodwill.
GENTLE NUDGE®
By the numbers
Client Libraries – 1,941
Assets Recovered – $1,157,763,566
Countries Serving – 5
Fine free and Unique Library
Did you know Unique works with libraries of all kinds – including fine free – to get materials back and patrons unblocked so they may return as users in good standing? Check out our fine free specific page for more information
Partner with Unique
Unique can reduce workloads for managers and frontline staff, which in turn increases in-house efficiency.
NMLS # 936787
NV Collection Agency License # CAD1113
NMLS Compliance Manager # 945101
Nicole Atkins NV Manager License # CM11482
Gentle Nudge Resources
Explore case studies, practical guidance, and the latest resources about patron-centered library material recovery.
Ripple Effects of Long-Overdue Patrons
See how long-overdue materials affect patrons waiting on holds and why timely returns support circulation, access, and the broader library community.
Read More
Gentle Nudge FAQs
Get answers to common questions about Gentle Nudge, material recovery, patron communication, account referrals, reporting, and implementation.
Read More
When Demand Is High, Every Library Item Matters
Learn how material recovery supports patron access, keeps high-demand items circulating, and helps libraries make the most of collection investments.
Read More
Fine-Free Library Material Recovery
Explore how fine-free libraries can recover long-overdue materials while maintaining a respectful, patron-centered approach.
Read More
Material Recovery in the Fine-Free Era
See how material recovery can complement fine-free policies by focusing on the return of library assets and renewed patron access.
Read More How Overdue Materials Affect Everyone
Discover the ripple effect long-overdue materials can have on holds, circulation, collection access, and other patrons.
Read More
10 Reasons for Library Material Recovery
Review ten reasons libraries use material recovery to protect collections, restore patron access, reduce replacement costs, and support circulation.
Read More
How to Read Your ROI Report
Learn how to interpret a material recovery ROI report and connect recovered assets, staff time, account resolution, and service value.
Read More
5 Expert Tips for Getting the Most from Gentle Nudge
Use five practical recommendations to improve referrals, patron communication, workflow consistency, reporting, and material recovery results.
Read More
3 Ways Gentle Nudge Improves the Library Experience for Patrons
See how Gentle Nudge can help return materials, restore borrowing access, and improve the experience for patrons across the library community.
Read More
Understanding Your Monthly Reports from Unique
At Unique, we are committed to keeping you informed about the status of your accounts and any critical updates that may impact on your collections...
Read MoreExplore All Services
Solutions designed to improve patron communication, strengthen collection access, reduce staff workload, and support library growth.
Fine-Free Gentle Nudge
Recover long-overdue materials while preserving patron goodwill. Restore access, return items to circulation, and support the goals of a fine-free library.
Explore Recovery
MessageBee
Connect with patrons through email, SMS, and voice messaging from one library-focused platform. Improve outreach through the channels patrons use every day.
Patron Services
Expand patron support with live phone and chat assistance. Reduce frontline workload while providing timely answers and a better patron experience.
New Mover Service
Reach new residents soon after they move into your community. Targeted postcards build awareness, drive registrations, and help grow library membership.
Learn More
Material Recovery
Bring valuable materials back into circulation through proven library outreach. Improve collection availability while maintaining positive patron relationships.
Learn More
Verified Borrower Registration
Simplify online card registration through automated identity verification. Reduce staff work, improve data quality, and give eligible residents faster access.
Learn More
Automated Borrower Renewal
Renew eligible borrower accounts while validating patron information behind the scenes. Reduce repetitive tasks and maintain uninterrupted patron access.
Learn More
Explore All Services
Explore solutions that improve communication, increase efficiency, strengthen patron relationships, and support library growth.
View Every Solution