Amnesty for Overdue Library Books
To celebrate its one-year anniversary, the Mission Viejo Library is granting amnesty to patrons with overdue books.
All overdue materials returned during the anniversary celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 24 will be fine-free.
“Our goal in life is not to collect fines,” said Sandy Woodcock, senior librarian. “We just want to get our books back.”
With a hardback book costing $25 to $30, it is difficult for the library to replace every book that doesn’t get returned, Woodcock said. The library usually refers excessive fines to a collection agency.
Customers can negotiate a payment plan for large fines, but Woodcock said patrons often seem too embarrassed to do it. She said she hopes the anniversary celebration will make it less painful to return the overdue books.
The celebration will include storybook character Curious George and a performance by the Scott Land Marionette show at 2 p.m. in the Kershaw Garden.
Every half-hour, one child will win a book donated by the Friends of the Mission Viejo Library.
The library is at 25209 Marguerite Parkway. Information: (949) 830-7100.
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