Library Asset Recovery

Library Asset Recovery

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 almost 30 years of experience, we understand the particular needs and concerns of libraries. Our process saves you 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.

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NMLS # 936787

NV Collection Agency License # CAD1113

Nicole Atkins NV Manager License # CM11482