Our book section is notably lacking many "classics". This is partially due to our previous loose lending policy, where no deposit was required.
Also, this is basically our second book collection; the first, we operated as part of a coffeehouse and didn't require deposits, and coincidentally didn't get very many of the books we lent out back. In 1982 the remainder of the collection was donated to the church with which the coffeehouse was associated.
Unfortunately, many of those books, as well as many we currently have are out of print and irreplaceable. This is why we are now requiring deposits; still we would much prefer having all items returned to us rather than having to use the deposits to purchase replacement items.
Deposits are negotiable for correspondents with whom we've developed a relationship, and may not be required if we have historical confidence that the item will be returned in a timely manner and in the same condition that it was in when it was lent.
