County library offers week of fine forgiveness

The Manatee County Library System this week is offering to “wipe the slate clean” for anyone who owes late fees on library materials.

Fine Forgiveness Week, a one-time promotion that allows anyone who has an outstanding debt with the library system to return late materials without penalty, runs through May 19. Books must be returned to a staff member, so the patron’s account can be cleared. Individuals wishing to participate should not drop overdue items in book drops during Fine Forgiveness Week.

“If someone comes in and returns a lost book, we’re going to be happy to get the material back and make it available for the next user,” Library Services Manager Ava Ehde said. “But if they can’t find the material it or it’s damaged, instead of paying a $45 fine, they can bring in a 20-pound bag of dog food or some blankets or towels that will benefit shelters. This is a really positive step where we’re doing something to help the community, as well as getting the materials back.”

Items must be returned before 5 p.m. May 19. Materials do not have to be returned to their original checkout location.

For more information or a list of library locations, visit www.mymanatee.org/library or call 748-5555.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].