This procedure outlines what happens when a patron accidently returns a school book to MCL.  If the patron realizes the mistake and asks, share this process with them, stressing that it may take 2 weeks or more for a book to get back "home."  They are also welcome to contact the PPS Mail Services (aka Pony) directly.

Process

When a school book is accidentally returned to a branch

1. The branch sends the book to MAC/Mail Room in an interoffice envelope.
2. Mail Room staff pack all school books in a box(es) weekly.
3. PPS Pony drivers pick up the box(es) of books weekly. Exceptions to this schedule include summer and schedule aberrations such as spring break. 
4. Boxes arrive at the PPS "Pony Room" (Mail Services Department) at Blanchard, are opened and sorted for delivery to schools. PPS schools get deliveries every other day.
5. Books from schools in other districts in Multnomah County are put into the MESD delivery. 
6. MESD deliveries go to school districts twice a week and then are sorted by those districts to go to individual schools.

MCL books that are returned to schools follow this system in reverse: when books are sent to the PPS or MESD mail room, drivers put them in a bin for MCL and deliver weekly. 

Possible Delays

How quickly the branch sends the book to the mail room. 

How often the PPS or MESD drivers pick-up (may vary with school breaks)

How quickly school staff pass the book on to the correct place for it to be checked in

Alternatives

Youth Librarians may choose to return books to nearby schools, using it as an opportunity to strengthen relationships with the school staff. 

Youth Librarians may choose to contact a school to let them know that an item has been returned to MCL and will be sent back via PPS or MESD which could take week or more.