Not returning library books. ??

Question

4 years ago I borrowed some library books from the public library, and then moved, and never returned them.

I just recently turned 18 and got a letter stating that I have to plead guilty or not guilty to retention of library property.

Well, I obviously don't have the books anymore, so I'll be pleading guilty and paying the fine, but it says if I don't respond then they will issue a warrant for my arrest. ??

I am just wondering what is the seriousness of this crime? I mean I don't undersatnd why they are doing this now, 4 years later.!!

Do they really arrest people for not returning library books??

And how badly would something like this affect my record??

Answer 1

It's basically the same as borrowing money on credit and not paying it back.  It can go on your credit report and make it hard to get loans in the future.  I don't think they would arrest you, they're just saying that to make you pay.  Which you should.

Answer 2

I didn't know you failed to return DVDs as well.

Answer 3

say you took a car for a test drive and never returned it.  should you be subject to arrest?  of course.  you took property and never returned it.  how serious it is depends on the value of the books; some are pricey.  in some states they will arrest you.  in others, it's handled more like a civil matter.

Answer 4

It depends largely on where you are and where the library is located.  Laws vary widely from one state to another, but not returning the books is considered stealing.  Usually, there is just a fine involved so that the library can replace the items.  In fact, you might consider contacting the library directly to see if they will drop the charges in exchange for you paying whatever it costs to replace the books.

Answer 5

Respond to the letter.  Plead guilty.  Pay the fine.  Save all your paperwork.  This is probably a minor offense (misdemeanor) and shouldn't affect your record.

Answer 6

wow thats insane.im surprised  they even contacted you.talk to a attorney(if you have one in the family,or a family friend,or know one,that would be best)

Answer 7

It will prob jus end up as a fine for the price of the books and then thats it done. I wouldnt worry.

Answer 8

If they used that title, "Retention of Library Property," it's probably a city ordinance violation. Just a fine. They're doing it now because they finally had time to catch up on the old past due books. They can arrest you, but only if you don't respond to the letter. It's not exactly the sort of thing that will hurt you too bad and will usually be seen as an omission, rather than as a theft.  

Answer 9

that is preety serious it is just as bad as stealing from a store yes they can aresst you easily well anyways PAY THE FINE!

Answer 10

Well, I would offer to pay the fine or pay to replace the books whichever is cheaper. Maybe you should call a lawyer as it seems like they are being so mean about it. The library is run by our tax dollars so they could act more polite about a few lost library books!

Answer 11

OMG I've never heard of this before. I apparently took out a bunch of books when I was like 8 and have 100+ fine and I've never gotten anything about paying the fine. They just wont let me get a new card.

I'd pay it if I were you. Maybe you can contact them and set up a payment plan or if its cheaper re buy them the books a couple at a time. You can always find them really cheap on ebay or amazon. Try talking to the libary. I'm sure they'll work something out with you so they can get their money back. If you do have the money pay it off right away, if you dont, ask your parents to lend you some.

Good luck!

Answer 12

i wouldn't worry about your record.  this is a very minor thing, they just want some of the money to buy new books (even though they probably got them through a donation).  but yeah, they can issue a warrant for that.  my wife's friend got arrested because of a warrant that was for late fee's at blockbuster video!!!