Follow US Immigration and Life in the US: Failing to return library books on time usually results in a fine, but Kaylee Enke, a high school student in Texas, USA, is facing jail time for this reason.
Reports state that Enke borrowed a reference book from the library in 2010 and never returned it. Even after the library made multiple calls and sent emails requesting its return, she refused to respond and was eventually arrested and jailed by the police.
Reports indicate that cases of unreturned library books have increased in the area in recent years, and the library spends a significant amount of funds annually to replace lost books. In view of this, authorities amended regulations to require residents to return books within 90 days.
Shortly after being jailed, Enke was granted release on a $200 bail, and the book was returned the day after her arrest. However, the judge acknowledged that the new regulation has caused much dissatisfaction, stating, "No one wants to go to jail for a book."