Way Public Library users will have to dig deeper into their pockets when paying fines for overdue materials.
The library has raised fines for past-due items from 10 cents to 20 cents a day for each overdue item.
The fine hike is the first since 2005.
“We’ve been considering it for several months,” Janel Haas, Way Library director, said. “The board in January finally agreed to it.”
Ms. Haas said the change isn’t to raise money or hurt customers financially. Instead, “it encourages people to bring things back sooner, or on time,” she said. “It’s not to hurt people. Everything is free to borrow to begin with.”
Christina Schneider of Perrysburg grew up going to Way Library. Ms. Schneider, now 39, still visits the library several times a week. She said it’s more than worth the higher cost.
“The way it’s been upgraded, it’s beautiful. There are so many new amenities,” said Ms. Schneider, who visits the library a few times a week. “To pay 10 cents more to keep it up is absolutely fine.”
The increased fines are in line with those of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library, which charges 20 cents a day for audio items, books and video tapes. DVD and pocket video fines are 50 cents.
Way Library collects $35,000 to $40,000 annually in fines and fees. That figure includes lost-book fines. Ms. Haas said she doesn’t expect that amount to increase.
“It’s not like we’re going to go from $40,000 to $80,000. I don’t see that happening,” Ms. Haas said.
Fines for Reader Express materials will remain at 50 cents per item. Library users 60 and older are not charged for items not returned on time. Users can request emails and text messages with reminders.
“Our library is state-of-the-art. I’ve used the computer, checked out books and movies. I’m even registered to check out a shamrock cake pan for St. Patrick’s Day,” said Molly Deere, a Way Library member. “Little stuff like that — if the extra 10 cents keeps it the way it is, it’s worth it.”
Contact RoNeisha Mullen at: rmullen@theblade.com or 419-343-3299.
First Published March 2, 2015, 6:03 a.m.
