Hawaii State Public Library fines and fees change (Aug 5)

• 14 years ago

MEDIA RELEASE

The Hawaii State Public Library System (HSPLS) will implement new Administrative Rule changes at public libraries statewide on Thursday, August 5. The Board of Education (BOE) voted unanimously to approve the rule changes during their April 15, 2010 General Business Meeting.

Parents should be aware that overdue fines for children at Hawaii’s public libraries will increase from 15 cents per item per day to 25 cents per item per day. The current maximum fine of $4.50 per item for children (ages 17 years and under) will also increase to $7.50 per item. By implementing this change, overdue fines and the maximum amount per item will be the same for all borrowers. Of course, children who return library materials on time will not be affected by this rule change.

“There are three main benefits for converting to a uniform fee structure,” said State Librarian Richard Burns. “A uniform fee structure is predictable and easy to remember; it will ensure fairness to all library patrons; and it will encourage all our patrons to borrow responsibly.”

Parents can help their children keep track of due dates for loaned library materials on the HSPLS website (www.librarieshawaii.org): select the “Information” tab, click on the “My Account” tab, log in, and select “Checked Out.”

DVD and video borrowers will be happy to know that overdue fines for DVD/Video rentals will decrease from $1.00 per DVD/Video per day to 25 cents per DVD/Video per day. The rental fee and loan period for DVDs and videos are $1.00 per DVD/Video and seven days, respectively.

Among other major rule changes that will affect library customers are:

• Library Card. A new library card application and renewal form will advise parents and guardians that they will be held financially responsible for any fines, fees or charges incurred by a minor whose library card application they are signing.
• Replacement Library Card. Hawaii Resident/Military: the cost for adults will decrease from $10 to $5. This change will make the $5 cost consistent for both juveniles and adults.
• Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of any entrance, exit, window or ventilation intake. This change is in compliance with Hawaii’s Smoke-Free Law (Act 295) of 2006.
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on all library property.

For a complete listing of the revised 2010 HSPLS Administrative Rules please visit the HSPLS website, http://www.librarieshawaii.org/information/rules/adminrules.htm