University library fines increase 500 percent
The new system also includes automatic book renewal.
Starting this year, the university library system introduced an automatic book renewal system. However, books which others have put on hold will not be renewed – and if they are not returned on time, the fine is 250 NOK per book.
That is a 500 percent increase from the 50 NOK fine of last year.
«Increasing the fine the 250 kroner is for the students’ best interest,» said Brit Heidi Rustad.
New loan rules
Rustad coordinates the group that suggested the change, which was approved by the library director. She believes auto-renewal will make students’ lives easier, while the high fine will improve book circulation.
Students who hold onto syllabus books will be punished five times harder.
Auto-renewal is innovative, and an asset for students, says Rustad. Focusing on the increased fines is a misunderstanding, the coordinator says.
«We think 250 kroner for a book is a fair price when other students are waiting for that book, and you’ve also received two reminders to return it,» Rustad said.
The library sends a reminder when the book is due, and also seven days after by SMS and email. The fine notice is sent after 14 days.
«Share the books»
Rustad talks about the library as a place where we share materials and are in solidarity with each other – for no cost.
«The library is completely free. It’s an act of community to share the books,» she said.
If one follows the rules and is punctual, it’s free. For the more relaxed (or lazy) among us, the loan is only free for a certain length of time. After that, the fines trickle in. But Rustad says compared to other kinds of 30-day loan services, it’s a bargain.
«This is not a consumer service. This is about community. We’re not out to get people’s money. We’re trying to make this work in the best way possible for everyone,» she said.
No upper limit on fines
If you not only forget to return the book, but actually lose it, you will pay for a corresponding replacement, or 750 NOK – in addition to the 250 NOK fine.
With just one book students could therefore easily accumulate more than 1000 NOK in fines. If you take out several books, you could be on another level altogether.
You also will not be able to take out new books until you’ve paid up.
Rustad says people can take out as many books as they want. The fine system is likewise unlimited.
«There’s no upper limit for how much someone might pay in fines,» she said.
