Running a Library on $60...

[bitter_suite24]

I was helping a patron today who wanted to pay her fines. She was talking about the fact that our hours have been reduced due to budget cuts. She said she couldn't understand how we could be having money problems with all the fines everyone pays - especially her. Since I had her account up I could see the amount she's paid us over the years she'

Comments

[tears_of_nienna]

It really is funny, the number of people who think that we run the library on fines alone. ;)

It would be funnier if these people didn't vote down library levies, thinking we don't need the money. *facepalm*

[tragicomic]

I am under the impression that most of the public thinks that all public services run on magic alone.

I would have said to her, "There is a reason we call you 'patrons' and not 'customers', biatch" although I might say that last word in my head to myself.

[listenyoubitch]

all of our fines usually go down to city, if someone donates or buys books- now that's supporting a library!

[amanda_2112]

I'm going to guess that she doesn't know how much it takes to run a library. She should check out board meetings and they will tell you how much it takes to run even a small backwater library.

[kid_lit_fan]

$60 is, for example, only one day's salary at minimum wage. Even with discounts, has this woman priced books lately? Electricity?

I try not to run up fines, but when I do, I really can't complain. They are the most avoidable expense in the world!

[nialla42]

At least she didn't use the "I pay your salary!" chestnut. ;)

Fines

[anonymous]

The funds taken in by our county library system go into the general fund. They don't benefit the library directly!