How to Return Rentals on Time

What treasures lie under that coffee-table chaos? Could it be the video
you rented two weeks ago? Perhaps it's the library book due last
month. If late fees and overdue items are sapping your cash--
and putting a strain on friendships--it's time for a new system.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose a spot near the front door (a closet, a bookshelf, a cubbyhole) and place a container there to gather rental-store returns, borrowed items and library books. See 128 Store Anything.

2. Train yourself (and your family) to note the return dates of each rental item on the master calendar. Put a sticky note on the item itself or a reminder. See 266 Coordinate a Family Calendar.

3. Have family members develop the habit of checking the master calendar to see what needs to happen and note upcoming deadlines for returns.

4. Schedule the return errand in your daily to-do list, or assign someone to make the returns. See 4 Run Errands Efficiently and 3 Write an Effective To-Do List.

5. Cross off the note when the item is returned.

6. Renew the item by phone or online if you know you're going to be late. Many libraries offer this service.

7. Try services such as Netflix.com or Gameznflix.com. For a fixed monthly membership charge, you get three rentals at a time from your submitted favorites list, which you can keep as long as you like. These services send new movies or games only when you return the previous ones, so you don't pay any late fees. See 20 Never Be Late Again.

Tips & Warnings

• Some libraries may have additional drop-offs at post offices, grocery stores and city hall.
• For added convenience, try using online library resources for your reading material. Check out NetLibrary.com or ClassicBookshelf.com for electronic books (aka e-books).

[JanetRaff]

on 8/19/2007 Slip the receipt in the front, outside cover, of the movie jacket. The return dates and movies rented are visible at a glance.