If You Owe an Overdue Book Fine in San Francisco, You’re Off the Hook
Just kindly return that Steinbeck, please.
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CategoryArts + Culture
Joining Berkeley, San Diego, Marin and San Mateo, the San Francisco Library announced the elimination of library fines for all its patrons, included existing debts. The library will also automatically renew your book up to three times, though you will be responsible for returning your selections or face a fine for lost, damaged or unreturned items.
According to KQED, “A study undertaken by the SFPL and the San Francisco Financial Justice Project of the Treasurer’s Office, published in January 2019, found that ‘overdue fines restrict access and exacerbate inequality by disproportionately affecting low-income and racial-minority communities, create conflict between patrons and the library, require an inefficient use of staff time, and do not consistently ensure borrowed materials end up back on library shelves.’
“In short, overdue fines hindered the library’s ability to serve those who would benefit most from it, contradicting the SFPL’s mission of providing its patrons free and equal access to information.”
You can read more about the library’s decision here.
One Man’s Journey From Los Angeles to Tijuana in a Kayak
When Andrew Szabo, a 46-year-old Manhattan Beach entrepreneur, told his wife that his midlife crisis involved the purchase of an ocean kayak and the desire to paddle from MB to Tijuana, her reaction was simple: “Have a good trip, and make sure your life insurance premiums are paid.” What followed were three months of intense preparations, a life-changing journey and becoming part of the global battle to raise awareness for tuna overfishing.
Hey, Weekend: San Diego
Sunshine, social distancing and Ron Burgundy.
