Library Newsletter
September 2019
Fine Forgiveness Day 2019
Fine Forgiveness Day is an effort to welcome people back to the library with a clean slate. If you have overdue books or items on your library account, return them to the library on September 27, and fines and fees on those items will be waived. Returned materials must be undamaged and in good condition to be eligible.
 
If you already have existing fines on your library account, you can “read down your fines” on September 27 by reading in the library. Every 10 minutes of reading = $1 of overdue fines, up to a maximum of $10. Note: charges for lost or damaged items cannot be waived.
 
Lost your library card? Receive a free replacement card in September. It’s time to come back to the library!
 
Frequently Asked Questions
Overdue Amnesty
If you have overdue books or items on your library account, you can be forgiven on September 27 by bringing those items back to the library.
 
FAQ’s
How does it work?
  • Fines and fees on library materials returned September 27 will be forgiven.
  • Returned materials must be in good condition. Fines will not be waived on damaged items.
  • Items must be returned at the Circulation Desk or Book Drop for fines to be waived.
  • In most cases previously blocked cards will be reinstated immediately.
Do I have to go into the library, or will my fines automatically be waived or forgiven?
You may drop off the overdue items via the library’s book drop. However, if you have an item that is no longer in our catalog we may not be able to link it to your account. To have your overdue fines waived immediately, we encourage you to stop by the library and speak to library staff on September 27 so they can look up your account.
 
Can I have fines forgiven for others?
Yes. Fines will be forgiven for materials that are returned on September 27th in good condition.
 
Which fines will be cleared?
All fines and fees for materials that have been returned will be forgiven.
 
If I lost my library card can I receive a free replacement card on September 27?
Yes!
 
What items and fees are not eligible for fine amnesty?
Items and fees not eligible are:
• Overdue or lost materials that have not been returned.
• Damaged and unusable items, or items that are incomplete (i.e. a missing disc).
 
What if I previously paid my fine? Can I get a refund?
No, the library is unable to give refunds for fines previously paid.
 
What if I have an existing fine from items I already returned?
You can participate in our Read Down Your Fines event on Sept. 27.
 
 
 
Read Down Your Fines
If you have overdue fines on your library account, you can “read down your fines” on September 27 by reading in the library. For every 10 minutes of reading, you can whittle off $1 of overdue fines, up to a maximum of $10.
 
FAQ’s
How does it work?
  • On September 27, pick up a reading log at the Children’s Desk or the 2nd floor Reference Desk.
  • Library staff will check your account and tell you how much time you will need to read to clear your charges, up to $10.
  • Choose some reading material and make yourself comfy at the library while you read.
  • Write down your total minutes and go back to the desk where you got your log.
  • Finally, visit the Check Out Desk to get rid of fines.
Who can participate in Read Down Your Fines?
Adults, teens and children can participate. A family member may read aloud with a young child for the child’s minutes.
 
Which fines will be waived?
Overdue fines and fees are eligible to be waived. However, charges for lost or damaged items cannot be waived.
 
What if my overdue fines are more than $10?
$10 is the maximum amount that can be waived.
 
How long will I need to read to reduce my fines by $10?
Every 10 minutes of reading is equivalent to $1 of fine reduction, so 100 minutes (1 hour and 40 minutes).
 
Can I read down fines for others?
No, you may only read down fines on your own card. Children may read down fines on a parent/guardian’s card.
 
Can I count time I spent reading at home?
This is a one day only event. You must complete your reading minutes while in the library on the 27th.
 
Can I read ahead for fines not yet accrued on my card?
No, only current fines will be waived.
 
Can my whole family read to reduce our fines?
Yes. Just remember we cannot exceed $10 in waived fines for any account.
Why is the library forgiving fines?
Manhattan Public Library is a resource for the entire community. Fine Forgiveness Day is an effort to eliminate barriers and welcome people back to the library with a clean slate.
 
How can I keep track of my library materials and due dates in the future?
  • Ask for a printed receipt of all the materials you have checked out each time you come in.
  • Pay attention to text or email notices you receive from the library.
  • Log into your library account from home to see what items you have out and check their due dates.
  • Renew items from your online account or by calling in. You can renew an item 2 times unless it has a hold on it or other restrictions.
  • Keep your library materials in a special spot in your home so they are easy to find later.
  • Make sure library materials are out of reach from pets, kept indoors and away from moisture, and used with care.
  • Use the library’s book drop to return items quickly and conveniently.

Questions? Please ask! Contact library staff at (785) 776-4741.