This is a partial copy of an email I sent to Marc Powell about
the future of the project.

Date: 25/02/2002
---------------------------------------------------------------

Hi,

<snip>

There are a few things I want to finish:

1)  I would like to remove much of mysql specific logic and replace
    with a abstract database interface.  I do not plan to change
    the SQL or actually provide other database support, but I wanted
    to start with removing all mysql php stuff first, and then
    consider how to proceed.
     ==> Any suggestions on existing php database libraries welcome!

2)  A restrictions system.  This would allow an administrator to
    restrict access to particular items, such as items with an 
    X AGE_RATING.  The system would also be flexible enough to
    allow individual users to restrict access to particular users.
      => docs/restrictions.txt
      The Requested Features: 'Maximum Rating allowed',
                  'Restricting concurrent borrowed items',
                  'Individuals approving users'

3)  I would like to complete a 'Borrower Ratings' system whereby
    users would be given a rating for their ontime return of items,
    as well as the general condition of the item upon return, etc.
    
    Each user would start with a platinum rating and gradually
    get reduced, until they have been 'black banned' for instance.
     => This feature would encourage borrowers to look after items,
     and allow potential lenders to decide whether to lend or not.
     The system would obviously allow users to come back from the
     'black' status by repeated good ratings.  The system would not
     enforce anything, but as a guide to lenders...

<snip>

Then I want to start looking at the restrictions functionality again and start 
implementing some of that.  All the restrictions functionality will be fully
configurable and users who are not interested can get back the speed lost by
disabling it.  There will some speed loss when the functionality is enabled,
but will offer a lot of power - so a trade off ...

<snip>

Cheers
Jason
--
Vegan Philosopher Programmer