Police throw the book at late library patrons

WESTMINSTER, Mass. -- An overdue book from the library could cost you more than just late fees in Westminster.

Forbush Memorial Library patrons who fail to return their loans on time now have their names forwarded to the local police department and could even receive a visit from officers.

“Usually, they’re rattled. They pay attention. It’s too bad it’s come to this, but in total, we have collected close to $3,000 dollars of what was owed the town,” said Westminster library director Margaret Howe-Soper.

Police only go after tardy library patrons when the department is not tied up with more important matters. Officers also only call on those readers who have ignored multiple warnings.

Westminster Police Department Chief Salvatore Albert has embraced the overdue duty, but many of his officers aren’t fond of the new assignment.

“It’s been more of a joke now that they have nothing better to do, but it’s part of their job,” said Albert.

Many locals also do not agree with police involvement in enforcing library policies.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea. Don’t police have enough to do?” wondered one woman.

“They should be out there checking the traffic and whatever but not for any late fees for books,” said a local man.

Howe-Soper hopes that the publicity the policy brings will encourage residents to return their books on time and thus negate the need for police involvement.

“The publicity we’re getting, to be honest, has brought in quite a few more people and brought in some books we’d forgotten we’d had,” said Howe-Soper.

The library previously did not have monetary penalties for overdue books. Yet with loses reaching $8,000 and a new materials budget of $55,000, tardy readers will now be charged 10 cents a day beginning Jan. 1.

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