Attention Scofflaws! Now’s your chance to return your Library Books with no Penalties

Photo by PoPville flickr user mosley.brian

From a press release:

“Beginning Monday through Feb. 5, 2012, the DC Public Library will forgive fines on overdue, lost or damaged books, CDs, DVDs, and other library materials. The campaign, entitled “Check it In” aims to encourage users who have avoided the library because of outstanding fines or fees to return and use the library.

“Libraries exist to give people access to books,” said Ginnie Cooper, chief librarian for the District of Columbia. “When fines and fees keep people away from the library, we need to find ways to encourage them to return. We hope giving people amnesty from fines andfees will do just that.“

To have a fine forgiven, cardholders can return overdue or damaged books or other library materials to any DC Public Library and speak with a library employee to update their account. For lost books, cardholders can speak with a library employee to have their account cleared.

For many years, the Library has not charged fines on overdue children’s books.

“Children’s books have carried no fines because we want to make sure that all children have access to books,” added Cooper. “Ultimately, we want the same access to adult books.”

Additionally, library cardholders are encouraged to visit any DC Public Library during this period to update their customer account with changes in email addresses, mailing addresses or phone numbers.”