Borrowing Information

Collection Agency

Since May 1, 2000, the Bethlehem Area Public Library has been using the services of a library collection agency to retrieve overdue materials and to collect charges that exceed $25.00. When accounts are turned over to the collection agency, a $10.00 fee is added.

Who is affected:

• Patrons whose materials are 60 days overdue. They will receive three notices in the mail before their names
  are sent to the collection agency: when the books are 14 days overdue (7 days for videos or DVDs), 28 days
  overdue, and 42 days overdue.

• Patrons who owe $25.00 or more in fines and fees. They will receive a bill and be given approximately two
  weeks to pay before their names are sent to the collection agency.

Who is not affected:

• Those who return materials on time
• Those who return materials within 42 days of the due date
• Those who do not allow their fines to exceed $24.99
• Those who pay their fines within 14 days of receiving the bill

Benefits

• More library materials are returned, saving what it would cost to replace them
• More fines are paid, giving the library money for more new materials and services
• Staff time is put to use in more positive ways, providing better library service to our patrons
• More responsible use of taxpayers' money

Questions? Contact Diane Davis

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