If you're a Bayside resident stockpiling overdue library items, you can return them between April and the end of July and your fine will be waived - as long as the items are in good condition.
Bayside Council endorsed a library fine amnesty on overdue library items at a Council Meeting on Wednesday, March 10.
From July 1, Council will adopt a new model whereby, rather than charging daily overdue fees, access to library privileges - including borrowing and use of public PCs - will be suspended until overdue items are returned.
If overdue items are not returned within 9 weeks, an invoice will be issued requesting payment of an administration fee plus the replacement cost of the items.
If the items are returned, the library member will only pay the administration fee, however if the items are not returned by 12 weeks, then the library member will be required to pay both the administration fee and the replacement costs for the items.
Council reportedly spends $500,000 every year on library items, and Mayor Joe Awada encouraged residents to return their overdue items so other borrowers could enjoy them.
"I hope all library members look around their homes and bring in all overdue books. A book that is not returned is a book that cannot be borrowed by anyone else," he said.
The initiative reflects a shift in the library operating model around the country, and other council libraries around Sydney - including Randwick, City of Sydney and Parramatta - have abolished fines.
The move is currently under review at Georges River Council.
Sarah Falson
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
