Library Forgives Delinquent Accounts in Exchange for Cat Pics This 'March Meowness'
Russian blue cat lounging in front of a bookshelf.
A library in Massachusetts has promised to forgive fees on lost or damaged books all month long on one condition: patrons need to show the staff a photo of a cat.
It doesn't have to be their cat, either. It could be any cat, really, as the library said it would "accept honorary cats as well, so you may show us a picture or drawing of a dog, raccoon, orca, capybara, or any other animal."
In a fun twist on March Madness, the Worcester Public Library launched "March Meowness" with an accompanying "Felines for Fee Forgiveness" program.
"Today is the day! We've got one month of fee forgiveness for lost or damaged WPL items! Show us a picture of your cat, a famous cat, a picture you drew of a cat - any cat, and we will forgive WPL fees on your account," the library shared in a post made to Facebook.
There are a few rules, though. For example, the lost or damaged items must be owned by the Worcester Public Library and considered lost for at least two months before any fees can be waived. Additionally, the library explained that some items would be excluded from the promotion and that forgiveness "will be given at the discretion of library staff," among other notes in a full statement shared on its website.
So far, the program has helped about 400 people restore access to their library accounts, according to Jason Homer, the executive director of the library. Homer also told local NPR affiliate WBUR on Monday that the staff is “feline good” about this initiative.
Along with the dropped fees, the library scheduled programs for patrons to get involved with two local animal rescues–Worcester Animal Rescue League and Second Chance Animal Services–by setting up a day to de-stress and interact with shelter cats and organizing another dedicated to making DIY cat toys that eventgoers could either bring home to their own pet or donate to the Worcester Animal Rescue League.
Additionally, the library encouraged community members to "vote in our March Meowness bracket" and take part in any number of the other programs it will be hosting throughout the month. Some of these include learning how to perfect the cat eye makeup trend, celebrating with a Hello Kitty-themed party, a screening of the movie Cats, other arts and crafts, and even a class to educate attendees about cats and their unique behavior.
Of course, the library also enticed readers to "check out some cat titles" to continue learning about the adorable creatures.
Next: Internet Loses it Over Cat’s Dramatic Reaction to Family Photoshoot
