Small Change, Big Problems

by American Library Association

Fraud, like fire, requires three financial need, rationalization, and opportunity. Lax or nonexistent financial management, along with an ""it can't happen here"" attitude, creates the quintessential fraud opportunity waiting to happen in many libraries. This hands-on guide discusses the unique vulnerabilities of libraries, especially as their assets grow. From daily book fines to budgets in six or seven figures, libraries offer ample opportunities for the attentive thief, often someone in a position of trust. Proactively putting financial controls into the library can remove a source of temptation. Snyder, a long-time fraud detection expert, outlines solutions covering technical aspects of detecting and preventing fraud in libraries, while pointing out ways of modifying entrenched behaviors to reduce the chances of theft. Outlining specific types of fraud, with tips to combat each, the book also addresses such key questions Why are libraries particularly susceptible to fraud? Who commits fraud? How does fraud happen? What have other libraries done to detect and prevent fraud? Library directors, business managers, board members, and trustees will find no-nonsense answers to protecting their library's assets.

149 pages, Paperback

First published September 30, 2006

Reviews

[Samuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This volume probably wouldn't be valuable to anyone with a background in accounting or auditing, but for a librarian or board member with no such training, it's excellent. I was director of a small rural library right out of library school, and I wish I'd had this book then to help tighten up some of our procedures.

[Anne Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the most exciting read, but definitely lots of useful information. As a new library director, I am sure that I will be referring to it as I learn the library's current financial procedures.

[Azuree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although not a fun read, this book was very informative and interesting to read. It detailed how fraud works both in general and in the library world. I definitely recommend it for any manager, director, etc. who might suspect something is going on with their finances or want to make sure that nothing ever does.