Libraries Increasingly Turning to Collection Agencies

Those unreturned books and videos are costing libraries a bundle, and they?re not going to take it anymore.

Libraries are turning to collection agencies to recover overdue materials. But strong-arm tactics are out.

?We?re not looking to scare people,? said Mark Willis, spokesman for the Dayton Metro Library. ?We want these people to continue being our customers.?

Michael Gorman, president-elect of the American Library Association, believes more and more libraries are using collection agencies. Many libraries are facing tight budgets and at the same time increased demand, with patrons wanting DVDs, Internet access and other services.

A sluggish economy has reduced tax revenues, leading local and state governments to cut support for libraries. City governments often are under pressure to maintain funding for what residents feel are essential services such as road repair and police and fire services.

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