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May 25, 2006
No more library fines
In one state of America they have stopped issuing "fines" for late return of library books. They added up the cost they incur of chasing people and found it came to more than the revenue.
After a while, if you don't return the books, you may not be allowed to borrow any more. Sometimes they take a credit card deposit (like hotels do)
"Fines" is an out of date word - it conveys all the things we most dislike about local councils. I think this is a good idea.
Posted by Tim Coates at May 25, 2006 8:29 AM
Comments
Part of the problem with library fines in the UK is that notices for overdue books tend to be generated after several weeks when the library fines total more than the purchase price of the book.
In our surveys of local library users, this has had a negative knock-on effect on visitor numbers. It is a particular problem for those on low incomes or who are living on a pension.
In spite of this, local councils appear to see library fines as another source of revenue (like parking fines) and increase them annually.
Posted by: ELC at May 25, 2006 10:23 AM