4 ms·
There is opportunity cost when someone leaves a library book under their bed and no one else can use it. Eventually the library must replace the book. In my exp
by macinjosh 5y ago
There is opportunity cost when someone leaves a library book under their bed and no one else can use it. Eventually the library must replace the book. In my experience the fees cap at the value of the book. I see it more as an attempt to recoup costs incurred. If it was for deterrence the fees would need to be exorbitant.
- glitchc 5y agoThe cost to society at large for lost books is trivial, whereas the advantage of having these books distributed among low-income households is priceless. The New York Public Library has figured this out. That's the whole point isn't it? That punishment doesn't work. Rich people can afford to shrug off the fine while the poor never return to the library again.
- jimmyvalmer 5y ago> having these books distributed among low-income households is priceless That might have been true twenty years ago. With hook-or-by-crook internet access, the only reading poor kids are doing are their group chats.
- philistine 5y agoThe joy of young kids reading books is alive and well, you grinch.