PRESS RELEASES
BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY TO INSTITUTE FEE FOR OUT-OF-COUNTY BORROWERS
~ Budget Shortfalls Necessitate New Revenue Streams ~
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Buffalo , NY -- At its March 17th meeting, the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library (B&ECPL) Board of Trustees approved a policy change, which will institute a fee for out-of-county borrowers, effective April 18, 2005. Currently, the B&ECPL offers reciprocal borrowing privileges with library systems located in Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Livingston, Wyoming, Monroe, Wayne, and Ontario Counties.
“To address recent budget cuts and be proactive in addressing future fiscal uncertainty, the B&ECPL is evaluating and implementing a number of revenue generating initiatives,” said Board Chair Rebecca Pordum. “As libraries across the country face similar obstacles, many have changed their policies and are charging non-residents for library service.”
Out-of-county borrowers will be charged a $20 fee for six months with a 15-item limit. Non-residents who are employed, own property or attend school in Erie County are exempt. Library cards for all current out-of-county patrons will expire on April 18, 2005.
“Considering the cost of purchasing bestsellers, children’s books, Internet service, online databases and magazine and newspaper subscriptions, the library card obtained by an out-of-county borrower is a high-value investment,” said B&ECPL Director Michael C. Mahaney.
The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library System, comprised of the Central Library, 15 city branches, 36 contract library facilities and mobile and outreach services, is dedicated to connecting Erie County’s diverse communities with library resources that enrich, enlighten and entertain.