Library to forgive overdue fines

The Public Library will help its customers enter 2021 with a clean slate, as a campaign to eliminate overdue fines kicks off in December.

The Library will help its customers enter 2021 with a clean slate, as a campaign to eliminate overdue fines kicks off in December. This process will give patrons a chance to clear their accounts.

Although the Public Library will waive fees for overdue materials, costs for materials that are not returned will still be charged.

Library Executive Director Aimee Fifarek said that with the effects of COVID-19 on the economy and employment, now seemed the right time to implement this policy.

“Removing barriers to library use has always been one of our priorities,” she said.

“We derive very little of our income from overdues – less than 1 percent in overdue fines and cost of lost materials. But the most important impact to us is that people may not use the library for fear of accruing costs they cannot afford.”

During December, patrons should speak with a Library staff member about waiving all existing fines, bringing back long-overdue items, and being issued a replacement card, if needed.

“We are happy to be able to bring about this change for the benefit of our community. We know that people love their library and want to be able to continue to use the materials on our shelves, and now overdue fees will no longer be a deterrent,” Fifarek said.

Library enters construction phase

The Main Library renovation has entered its second phase. Bids are being reviewed by the construction manager at risk, and contracts will be awarded. The cost of design and construction for the project is expected to be $26.1 million.

AMHigley Company of Cleveland and partners Dawn Incorporated of Warren, Construction Manager at Risk, issued 31 separate bid packages for the project and over 90 contractors submitted bids.

Work inside the building was scheduled to begin in November on the entire lower level.

Main Library’s parking lot entrance/ exit has moved to Rayen Avenue and the entrance/exit on Wick is now closed. Additionally, there will be no access to the lot from Grove Street. Parking for the disabled has moved to the eastern side of the building and spaces are clearly marked.

The book and media drop boxes were moved closer to the parking lot. Patrons choosing to pick up materials curbside should call 330744-8636, and inform staff when they are in the lot turnaround; staff will bring library materials out to patrons’ cars.