---
title: "Unable to delete User/Patron Record"
canonical: "https://support.soutron.net/space/KNOW/17498155/Unable%20to%20delete%20User%2FPatron%20Record"
format: markdown
---
It is possible to delete a user/patron record but the user/patron record remains within the database, hidden from a normal search, unless an option is set to Search Deleted Users in the Advanced Search function within Users function.    

 

It is not possible to delete a user when there are current transactions for that user or patron. The records out on loan or overdue must be closed off, i.e. returned before the user record can be deleted. 

 

The Loans tab on the patron / user record will list all outstanding loans. These can be processed from within this function.

 

If all items are returned, the delete menu function then becomes available when viewing the patron / user record details.

 

The system records all transactions made by a user or patron and these are held permanently in the database for statistical and reporting purposes. All searches performed are also logged against the individual user. Thus it is not sensible to permanently delete user records from the system. The consequence would be the loss of possible statistical analysis in future years.

 

The deletion of the patron / user record in the system is therefore done to make it easy to see only current users i.e. ones that are active or potentially active in the system. 

 

It is always possible, as a System Administrator, to find a deleted user record and re-instate the user record.