Library fines

[The Dark Knight]

Can anyone please inform me if it is legal for a public school librarian to fine students for return books late? Thank you.

[MartyAmber]

After 'googling' library fines I happened to register for this thread to give an answer to your inquiry. Because it is rather narrow and absent of any details I propose just that-a simple answer-yes. Allow me to explain a little. This is with the assumption of course that there is a contract on file bearing the signature of an adult (whether it be a the student or someone acting on his/her behalf). In that agreement, undoubtedly, should be found an outline/reference in regards to fines, etc. There is no other option but to pay the fine(s). If this answer is unsatisfactory then I propose that you divulge all that pertains to the nature of the inquiry. Only then can further assessments be retrieved.

[thorax232]

Key Terms:
competent, minor

Legal Mumbo Jumbo:
You can fine them but you must remember a minor is under the age of legal competence and can not be held liable under legal contract. Therefore, it is the parent, as the one responsible who must sign a contract stating they agree to any fines incurred.
From there you can just tell the child, "You owe this much." And if they refuse you go to the parent who is legally bound by contract.

Final Answer:

Can anyone please inform me if it is legal for a public school librarian to fine students for return books late?

Yes, through the permission of the parent.

[CountryBoy]

While the assumption has been made that the term "student" infers that the poster is a minor, which may not be true, my opinion is that yes, the librarian can assess a fine for late returns. Library books are "borrowed" property and are not the personal property of the borrower. Therefore, due process is not necessary and no property rights exist.

[thorax232]

True enough, either way, question answered yes?