Fellow book lovers and cat enthusiasts! Have you ever heard of a library where your overdue fines could be cleared with just a picture of a fluffy feline? Well, brace yourselves for the most adorable amnesty program you’ve ever encountered, coming straight from the heart of Worcester. This unique initiative is purrfectly designed for those of us who might have been a tad forgetful with our library returns. And let’s be honest, who hasn’t been there, right?
Introducing “March Meowness,” a whimsical and heartwarming campaign that’s all set to make your library fines disappear with the magic of cat pictures. Yes, you read that right! For the entire month of March, all you need is a picture of a cat—any cat—and voilà, your fines for lost or damaged books are history. And the best part? It doesn’t even have to be your cat. So, it’s time to dig through your phone for those cute cat snaps you’ve been saving for no apparent reason, or perhaps, unleash your inner artist and sketch a majestic feline. Lions, tigers, your neighbor’s shy tabby—every cat counts!
Now, you might be wondering, “Why cats?” Well, the masterminds behind this delightful initiative are none other than a bunch of self-proclaimed “cat people” at the Worcester Public Library. Jason Homer, the library’s Executive Director and a fellow cat enthusiast, shared the purrpose behind this innovative idea. The aim is to reel back in those who’ve strayed away from the library, fearing the mountain of fines they assume have accumulated. “Life happens,” says Homer, acknowledging the myriad ways books can be lost or forgotten, especially during the unsettling waves of the global pandemic.
But why stop at fee forgiveness? The library is going all out with a plethora of cat-themed events that promise a whisker-licking good time. Imagine perfecting your cat-eye makeup (yes, for humans), unraveling the mysterious behaviors of cats with a certified cat behaviorist, and even de-stressing with some adorable kitties from the Worcester Animal Rescue League. It’s a feline frenzy that’s bound to have the community purring with joy.
The response? Absolutely paw-sitive! It turns out, librarians and cats share a special bond, and the library is embracing this stereotype with open arms (and hearts). “We’re really leaning in on the fact that, all in all, librarians are cat people,” Homer chuckles, inviting everyone to join in on the fun and laughter.
This heartening initiative is part of a broader movement among libraries to knock down barriers and create a more welcoming space for everyone. As of 2020, the Worcester Public Library waved goodbye to late fines, although fees for lost or damaged items remained. However, “March Meowness” is here to offer a creative solution to this dilemma, encouraging patrons to reconnect with their local library without the worry of fines hanging over their heads.
In Massachusetts alone, a whopping 313 out of 367 public libraries have adopted a fine-free policy, reflecting a growing trend to make knowledge and resources more accessible to all. It’s a movement that’s gaining momentum, with libraries recognizing the importance of being more forgiving and understanding, especially in challenging times.
So, whether you’re a cat lover, a bookworm, or just someone looking to clear those pesky fines, “March Meowness” is the purrfect opportunity to start afresh. Let’s celebrate the joy of reading, the warmth of community, and, of course, the undeniable charm of cats. After all, in the world of Worcester’s libraries, it’s never too late to turn a new page—especially if you’re armed with a cat picture!
Get ready to act meow, and let’s make this March one for the books (and the cats!).
