My Library Book Fine Nightmare

This story is about my book fine nightmare with the Mesa Public Library in Mesa, Arizona. I checked out about 15 books. I took care of them. I returned them on time to the outside book drop in the same condition I received them. The next day I receive an email from the Mesa Public Library saying that I owe them $409.33 for damaged books. They also said I have 2 weeks to pay up or they would send my bill to there collections agency and my credit would be ruined!

The Mesa Public Library in Mesa, Arizona is a very old establishment. In fact, I remember going there 20 years ago when I was a kid. Many of there books are out of date and dog-eared when you check them out. I was accused of something I didn't do. I cannot prove I didn't damage the books and have no way of fighting against the City of Mesa.

When I received the email it was late last Friday night. I called the Mesa Public Library and they were not answering the phone. On Saturday I called and spoke with someone in the book fine department who said he couldn't help me. He said I would have to speak with a supervisor that would not be in the library until Monday.

Most people go to the library because they cannot afford to buy books. That is the category I fall into. I love to read but I cannot afford to buy a bunch of books. I really cannot afford to pay the library $410 in book fines.

I stressed out all weekend and then called the Mesa Public Library on Monday about the book fines. He would not budge. I have no way to prove I did not damage the books. He pointed out that when I signed up for a library card I signed a legal document agreeing to pay for all damaged books. I pointed out that I could find all these books on amazon in used condition for less than ½ of what they are charging me. He told me that I could purchase the exact same books for the library, but they would have to be brand new. Although these books were not in a good condition when I checked them out.