INFORMATION RELEASE                                     
For Release April 26, 2007                                       
Media Contact: Heather O'Connell                                          
(239) 461-2924 or hoconnell@leegov.com                                   
                                                                                  

Get off the hook!

FORT MYERS, Fla., April 26, 2007 – Library patrons have been returning their items in record numbers since the amnesty period started on April 16. Some locations had overflowing book drops; others reported about twice the normal amount of library items being returned. Among those bringing back items:

§         An individual library user returned nearly $700 in outstanding items.  

§         Another reported having library items out for 15 years.

§         A local family returned over $1,000 in materials.

”The family indicated they didn’t return the items sooner because they were waiting for an amnesty period,” O’Connell said.

But library users shouldn’t count on any future amnesty.

“This one-time opportunity is a last chance to bring back items and pay down charges before overdue library accounts are referred to a materials recovery agency starting May 1,” O’Connell said.

All accounts over $25 will be referred to the agency when the items are 30 days past their original due date. Library users with overdue materials will receive a letter asking them to return items within 10 days. If the items aren’t returned during that grace period, the library card holder will be responsible for a $10 service fee in addition to regular late charges or replacement fees.

The library system will be working with Unique Management Systems, an agency with extensive experience with libraries in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom and specializes in the recovery of overdue materials.

O’Connell says the agency has an excellent record of treating library patrons respectfully and fairly.

“They help patrons understand that when materials aren’t returned other library users can’t use them and the library has to replace those items instead of buying new titles” O’Connell said.

“It may seem like it’s not hurting anyone to keep a book or DVD for a few months, but in reality, it has an impact on what the library can offer to others in the community,” she added.

Library users have several options for checking the status of their accounts:

§         Speak with library staff from 9a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday – Thursday, and 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday – Saturday at (239) 479-INFO (4636)

§         After library hours, call the automated library line at (239) 338-3518

§         Visit the library website at www.lee-county.com/library and click “My Account”

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