County Librarian Jayante Addleman says that in November and December,the cash-strapped library system decided to forgo the some $10,000 in fines and fees it takes in every month to help patrons get through tough economic times.

"People have been so thrilled," she says. In Greenfield, librarian Beth Lopez reports that she recently forgave what would have been nearly $200 in fines to the great relief of a woman who will now be returning to the library.

 Next month, Addleman will know just how many books and DVD's came back to the county's 17 branch libraries.

People may need the library now more than ever with latest statistics available showing that nearly 30% of county residents