Library to get tough on fines by cutting computer access
GREENSBORO — Got a pile of library books gathering dust on your bedside table?
In case you need more incentive to return them to the Greensboro Public Library — and pay those overdue fees — you’re about to get one.
Starting in late winter, library users with late fines and lost material fees of more than $50 will no longer be able to access computers.
“I don’t really see it as anything other than our attempt to be good stewards and do due diligence in terms of unreturned books and unpaid fines,” Library Director Sandy Neerman said.
The library already cuts off patrons from checking out material when they have a bill over $5. The fines range from 5 cents a day for children’s books to 50 cents a day for items such as DVDs. Fees for lost materials are higher.
When overdue fees and fines on a single account tip the $50 mark, the city sends the account to an third-party collection agency to recover the money — and sometimes the material.
Last year, 1,565 accounts were turned over to the collection agency, which collected $15,335 and $74,960 worth of books and other material.
The new computer shut-off rule, which is used Charlotte, will be further incentive for people to return overdue material, Neerman said.
The new rules will likely take effect in February to give the library time to notify customers.
People who need help paying the bills can visit the nearest library branch to set up a payment plan with staff, Neerman said.
Contact Amanda Lehmert at 373-7075 or amanda.lehmert@news-record.com
Accompanying Photos
Photo Caption: The Central Library in downtown Greensboro.
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