Library policies change

Show your holiday spirit of giving, and you'll be forgiven by the Perham Public Library.

But in 2008, delinquents will be facing harsher punishment.

The library is enacting a policy change regarding fines as of February 1.

Currently the library allows the check out of library materials and use of the public computers as long as the total of fines on a card is less than $25.

On February 1, this limit will be reduced to $5.

This change is being implemented in order to help library patrons keep their fines at a more manageable level.

Repent: Give to food shelf

for your library sins

The library will be accepting donations to the Perham Food Shelf in lieu of $1 of overdue fines on their cards through January 15.

"We're looking at this temporary fine forgiveness initiative as a win-win situation. Library patrons will be able to clear up some of their overdue fines and the local food shelf can benefit, too," stated Librarian Susan Heusser-Ladwig.

While borrowing privileges and computer use are free at the public library, fines are charged for items that are not returned on time.

Overdue videos are charged a fee of $1 per day, while all other overdue library materials are charged at $.05 per day. Fines are also charged at replacement cost for lost and damaged materials.

"Friends of the Library"

campaign continues

The "Friends of the Perham Area Public Library" are continuing the membership drive.

The new program encourages donations, volunteer support and memberships.

The cost for a student or senior is $5; and for an individual, the membership fee is $10.

Family memberships are $25; patron-level membership is $75; and a business sponsorship is $100.

All "Friends" will receive the quarterly "Library Lore" newsletter. Patrons receive a "Friends" lapel pin, plus the newsletter. Business sponsors receive a certificate, and a listing in each newsletter.

A lifetime membership, at $250, qualifies for the quarterly newsletter, lapel pin and canvas tote.

"The library is a place to be educated, informed, entertained, enlightened, inspired and enriched," states the "Friends" promotional brochure. "It is a gateway to a world of ideas, and it is open to all."

Main fundraisers include

table fair-auction

The Perham library's main fundraisers are the book sales during the February trade show and the June Turtle Fest; and the February "Table Fair and Auction."

Library donations help support children's programs, visiting authors, and computer and materials purchases.