Library Fines
I recently learned that the fines collected by a local public library go back to the city government and not to the library. That motivates me to return my library materials on time so I don’t pay fine money that doesn’t go to the library. The comic strip Unshelved, about a public library, has been printing a series about collecting library fines. A librarian brought out a box called the “Conscience Box,” where people can pay an amount they decide is fair for returning their library material(s) late.
(I guess you now know I’ve only worked for libraries where the fines have gone to the libraries … at least no one told me they went anywhere else … hhhhhmmm …)
So if you don’t like your city’s government, return your library materials on time. If you want to support your local library, join one of their supporting committees or boards or give them money or materials directly.
January 23rd, 2004 at 1:41 pm
Patrons were always surprised to hear that little fact when we told them that at the public library. It was a good antidote to the “you’re just fining me to make money” argument from patrons. I wish more patrons knew about the financial aspects of libraries; perhaps, they would behave with a little more kindess toward people on the front line.