First, I want to thank everyone who responded to my request for
information on spillproof beverage containers. It was very instructive.
On the whole, the response was favorable toward the use of spillproof
containers. I have consolidated many of the comments and recommendations
into categories.
Container specifications:
-Size ranged from 8 ounces to 20+ ounces. The larger sizes seem to work
better as they can hold an entire bottle of soda comfortably.
-Insulated/thermal mugs seem to be preferred as they keep the cold beverages
from sweating.
-A skid-proof bottom and a good tight seal on the lid was recommended to
prevent accidents.
-The mug and lid should be slightly pliable to prevent cracking if dropped.
-Most institutions went with local vendors to purchase the containers.
Distribution of containers:
-Many institutions distribute the containers to all students at no charge,
but with a replacement fee to cover costs. (The mugs are sometimes given
to the entering class as a 'welcome' present.) The initial cost of
distribution is covered by a variety of groups including: the library,
the administration, the alumni, the food service supplier.
-Those institutions that sell the mugs do so with costs ranging from $3.50
to $7. (The students complained that the $7 was too expensive.) Often the
mug is sold by a student organization as a fund-raiser, with library
approval on the mug model to be sold.
-Some institutions allow beverages in any spillproof container (such as
purchased at fast food establishments).
Note: Two institutions arranged with their food vendors to provide beverages
at a reduced cost to those with the mugs.
Sampling of the responses:
"It seems to work quite well."
"To my surprise, student compliance has been extremely high."
"The response has been very enthusiastic and students have complied for the
most part."
"Biggest complaint is that some patrons want to use another cup, just as
spillproof, but not THE ONE APPROVED CUP."
"It has eliminated much of the sneaking in, but not completely."
"They have been pretty effective."
"... it was ecological ..."
"The students prefer the larger mugs - 20 oz. or more."
"Strongly suggest that you rethink ... If students hunger and thirst, let
them take a break in designated areas."
"Even with a policy allowing drinks in approved cups there were NUMEROUS
violations ... the decision was made to allow drinks in the library in
ANY container with a lid."
If I get any more responses, I will post them to the list.
Miriam Murphy
Head of Public Services
Professional Center Library
Wake Forest University
P.O. Box 7206 Reynolda Station
Winston-Salem, NC 27109-7206
(910) 759-5052 FAX (910) 759-6077
murphy@lib.wfunet.wfu.edu
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : 03/09/00 PST