Library Fines Go Up Starting Today

Just a reminder in case you haven't already heard, that today library fines will increase almost 50% in some cases.

Here are the changes as outlined on the SPL website: 

•The daily fine for an overdue book, CD, or DVD will change from 15 cents a day to 25 cents a day. Maximum per item late fee: $8.

•The daily fine for an overdue interlibrary loan (an item borrowed from outside The Seattle Public Library) will change from 25 cents a day to $1 a day. Maximum per item late fee: $15.

•The daily fine for an overdue reference resource will change from 15 cents a day to $1 a day. Maximum per item late fee: $15.

•The per page charge to print from Library computers will change from 10 cents to 15 cents per page.

In addition, all accounts with a balance of $25 will be sent to a collection agency, including accounts for children and teens. A $12 charge is added to the account at that time. Parents of children age 12 and under will be notified when accounts become delinquent. Adults and teens ages 13-17 will be notified directly.

"The new fines and fees schedule will encourage timely return of books and materials and help offset budget reductions," the SPL website says.