Editorial: Library takes responsible steps to address problem of unreturned books

When WXYZ Television, Channel 7, out of Detroit comes to town to cover a story about overdue library books, it must be a slow news day in the Motor City.

Libraries across the county have a lot in common, including the problem of unreturned property such as printed books, audio books, CDs, DVDs, video games and more.

Most libraries send their patrons multiple notices and reminders when property is not returned. Libraries are willing to work with patrons who may have limited income to repay the cost of a lost book or cover fines. But when a Tecumseh couple refused to respond to letters attempting to reclaim two books, then there’s no excuse and it leaves the library little option but to seek the aid of law enforcement.

Between 2007 and 2014, Tecumseh taxpayers were on the hook for paying $38,267 to replace books and other items not returned to the Tecumseh District Library. The total does not include  fines that exceeded $23,000 for the same period.

While it may at first seem absurd to arrest a couple for two overdue books, the high cost of allowing people to get away with it is not.

Kudos to the Tecumseh District Library for being responsible with our tax dollars and doing what’s right.

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Tecumseh Herald

 

110 E. Logan St.
P.O. Box 218
Tecumseh, MI 49286
517-423-2174
800-832-6443

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