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Step 1
Prevent overdue library books. This can be as simple as using the bookmark that the library gives you that has your due date on it. Put the date in your palm pilot or even schedule it into your cell phone. At the very least this allows you to give your library a call & let them know what is up. Most libraries allow you to renew your books over the phone. You can even visit the library on the same day every two weeks so you get in the habit of knowing when to return them.
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Step 2
Add it up. If you add up what your family has spent on library fees in the past few years it can really help motivate you to be on time. It will even be incentive for your kids to keep track of their books. This is especially true if you make your kids contribute to their overdue library book fines.
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Step 3
Check for amnesty. Most libraries have one day a year where you can bring back book overdue library books for free. This might even be listed in your local paper. If you are too embarrassed by the hefty fines awaiting you, swallow your pride & give the library back their book so others can read it.
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Step 4
Keep track of your DVDs. It seems like every library has a different policy about checking out movies. Some require you to pay a small rental fee of a dollar. Others only allow you to check out a few at a time. These DVDs can often have higher overdue charges than books & shorter check out times. You might only be able to keep them for a week instead of two weeks. Make sure you know the policy so you don't end up with any unwanted surprises.
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Step 5
Offer to work it off. Your library can always use more volunteers. If you really can't afford your fines, ask if you can shelve books as a trade. While this is unconventional, it will get you your library card back.
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Step 6
Switch to book swapping. You can do this online & you get to choose a book for every one you send out, for free. You just have to pay postage when you send a book out. You'll still have a deadline as to when you have to mail you book. However, you don't have to return it or finish it by any given time. You can even keep it if you want so you won't have to deal with all of those overdue library books.
