In a down economy, many individuals turn to public resources like libraries for information and guidance.
In Minnesota public librarians, non-profits, and consumer rights attorneys are working together to provide the general public with the resources they need.
Because of the success of the efforts here in Minnesota, Randall Ryder was one of several panelists who presented to an audience of nationwide librarians. The presentation was directed at how the current economy is affecting the public and how librarians can assist the public in finding the resources they need.
Randall spoke at length on how the debt collection industry effects consumers in the current economic client. Specifically, Randall provided an overview of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and how consumers can protect themselves from abusive, unfair, and deceptive debt collectors.
The audience was directed to a number of resources to help individuals understand the FDCPA and seek legal assistance from a variety of sources if necessary. Randall also discussed the prevalence of debt collection lawsuits, the evidentiary issues involved, and how consumers can access resources to defend against debt collection lawsuits.
(photo:http://www.flickr.com/photos/bisgovuk/3919446619/)