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The Set of Rules
The Neighborhood Trust Network is essentially a set of
downloadable rules and forms, which are based on those
of the public libraries in the United States--through which
we have been successfully sharing (with each other) for
200 years!
1) Don't borrow what you couldn't pay for:
This guarantees that you won't find
yourself in a situation wherein you can't afford to be
honorable.
2) Don't lend what you couldn't do without:
If you are a professional carpenter, for
instance, don't lend your working tools. And don't lend
irreplaceable items--antiques, items of sentimental
value, etc.
3) Return every item in better
shape than you received it:
This increases trust for future "lending
events" very rapidly, and enhances respect for the
borrowed item itself.
4) Pledge to pay a fine if you return
the item late.
This creates the fundamental tendency to
return items on time, and inserts the concept of
responsibility into the agreement, from the "get-go".
5) It is the lender's "call" whether an item has
been damaged, and also on the specific compensation for repair
or replacement:
This may seem unfair at times, but it is
the only way to make the borrowing system work dependably and
consistently. If you feel you have been wronged by the lender,
don't borrow from him/her again.
6) Always sign a simple form:
Signing a simple agreement form (available
for free on this website), creates two good effects:
1) It makes a hefty impression on
the mind of the borrower to return the goods on time--and
provides a written reminder thereof; and
2) It allows the lender to remember
to whom he/she lent the items. (This is one of the biggest
pitfalls of loaning things--especially books)
If a person abuses any of these rules, don't
lend to him/her again.
No explanation necessary. They are out of
your network.
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