Suffern Library Book Fee Controversy

Last month, Rockland County resident Penny Courtine launched a petition criticizing the Suffern Library’s practice of imposing replacement fees for what she described as “minor, often barely visible damage” to books.

Courtine stated that approximately one month ago she was charged $16 in replacement fees for two children’s books she believed were returned in normal, acceptable condition. According to Courtine, the cited damage included “fingerprints on a baby book.”

After speaking with library staff about what she viewed as unfair charges, Courtine created a petition on Change.org detailing her experience. The petition garnered more than 100 signatures within 12 hours and has since surpassed 200.

Library Director Darlene Alessi said the controversy arose after patrons questioned how the library distinguishes between normal wear and tear and chargeable damage. Alessi also noted that the initial complaint did not originate with Courtine.

“Normal wear and tear is a book in which the edges are softer or worn,” Alessi said. “The inside pages may have some creases in them because they’ve been read. That’s all normal wear and tear.”

Alessi explained that children’s books, particularly board books, are evaluated differently due to their construction and frequent use. “[Board books] are almost built to break down,” she shared. 

According to Alessi, damages that warrant replacement fees include liquid damage, heavy ink marks, food residue, torn pages, or covers that are completely detached.

Courtine said she has been using the library for about two years and was previously fined once during the summer for a drop of water in a book, damage she said did not obscure any text. At the time, she considered the charge a “one-off,” but said the second incident prompted her to challenge the policy publicly.

Alessi stated that water damage is a non-negotiable charge due to the risk of mold spreading throughout the library’s collection. “Even just a drop of water can spread mold through the shelves,” she said. “We purchase these items with taxpayer money that I am accountable for.”

Courtine argued that the library’s fines make families feel discouraged from borrowing materials. “It creates an environment that is uncomfortable, where families feel uncomfortable bringing their children,” she said. “I wish that they’d make this a library that serves the community.”

Courtine also expressed concerns about transparency and oversight, saying that while she understands the need for standards, “there does not seem to be multiple checks.”

In response, Alessi stated that the library has implemented a new review process involving multiple staff members. Damaged children’s materials are now also evaluated by the Children’s Librarian, who specializes in assessing age-appropriate wear and tear.

Alessi added that during her five-year term as Library Director, she has worked to improve the quality of the library’s collection after observing widespread damage in older materials. “I’ve been slowly updating the collections,” she said.

She encouraged patrons to inspect books carefully at checkout and report any existing damage. Alessi also noted that the library has worked with patrons on a case-by-case basis to reach reasonable compromises when disputes arise.

Looking ahead, the library is drafting a revised damage policy for review by the library board’s policy committee. The proposed changes include clearer language and increased flexibility, such as allowing patrons to replace damaged books with identical copies if they can be found at a lower cost.

“We’re here to provide free services to the community,” Alessi said. “I enjoy getting comments, negative or positive, because the negative helps me reflect on what people aren’t happy with and how I can change that.”