Members yet to return books of Penha-de-France library
HERALD CORRESPONDENT
PORVORIM, MAY 5
There has been growing tendency among some members of Penha-de-France Library at Alto Betim to appropriate books borrowed from the library.
According to sources in Penha-de-France Library, as of date, 37 members are yet to return the books to the library even the time allotted to them for keeping the books is over.
Sources further informed that the cost of such non-returned books works out at Rs 4,492.
“One member had borrowed the book ‘Make it with Paper’, costing Rs 650, in January 2007. He is yet to return the book despite repeated reminders by the library,” informed sources.
The cost of some of the books unreturned so far even after one year varies from Rs 165 to Rs 325.
Penha-de-France Library Librarian Beena Naik said a member can borrow a book at a time and he is supposed to return that book within 15 days.
“If for some reason, the member could not complete reading the book, he is allowed to keep the book for another 15 days. After 30 days, the library charges Re 1 per day till the date of return of the book,” added Naik.
“But some members do not bother to return the books at all despite repeated reminders. The annual membership fee is Rs 10 only, but some members hesitate to pay the yearly fee of Rs 10 too,” said Naik.
Penha-de-Franca Library President Rajesh Volvoikar stated that public libraries are the democratic institution for the enjoyment of all.
“The growth of the library depends upon the support it gets from its members. The rules are aimed at increasing the use of library rather than curbing its use. Thus, the user should regard the rigid enforcement of the rules as an aid rather than hindrance in the use of the library,” said Volvoikar.
“The books that are borrowed must be returned on or before the due date so that other users do not have to suffer. If a book lying unused at home, it is the obligation of the user to return it as soon as possible. The members should treat the library as their own property and act accordingly,” added Volvoikar.
It may be recalled that Penha-de-France Panchyat has started the library in May 2005, as there were no recreational facilities for the residents of Alto Betim. Today, the library has got about 4,710 books in store and serves 974 members, out of which student members are 533.
