The Whitewright Public Library's Amnesty Month continues until the end of January. The staff would like to thank those who've returned items or contacted us about overdue materials.

 

For those who still have overdue items, you're reminded this is your last chance to clear your record before the library begins filing with the City Court for theft of city property. We do not want to take this extreme step, but with material costs increasing, the library cannot afford to ignore the problem.

 

Out of 27 people who did not respond to last year's amnesty month still have materials out worth just under $800, with one person having items totaling over $110. That's just the material cost and doesn't include any fines.

 

Hardcover books for children and adults cost between $15 and $30, with some from university presses costing over $50. DVDs average about $20 each, while audiobooks can cost over $100 each.

 

Some don't return overdue items because they fear a huge fine, but fines on books stop at just $3 each. Video fines stop at the cost of the item, which is generally not more than $20 each. We're much more concerned with getting things back than assessing a fine, even though fines do help us buy new materials, so if you still have items out, no matter how long it's been, please take advantage of Amnesty Month and you won't have to pay any fines as long as the item is returned in good condition.

 

We know embarrassment can play a factor in not returning items. You don't have to come into the library to return items, though in general we do prefer that during operating hours. We have a drop in the wall to the left of our door for books and magazines, and a metal drop box to the right of the door for any audio/video materials. The drops are available 24/7, but if you're unable to get to the library, you may also mail items back to PO Box 984, Whitewright TX 75491. No matter how you return your item, if it was due before December 31, 2006, your fines will be dropped.