Libraries are a great resource for books and DVDs, but fishing equipment? One branch of the Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) is offering just that.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources approached AACPL about starting a fishing pole loaner program, and it was launched in late April.
Fishing poles can only be checked out and returned to the Mountain Road Community Library, located at 4730 Mountain Road, Pasadena.
Because of the library’s proximity to Downs Park and other popular spots for anglers, the program is turning out to be very popular.
AACPL spokesperson Christine Feldmann says 62 people have checked out poles, which they can keep for up to two weeks.
One mother checked out fishing poles to take on a trip to Pennsylvania with her two sons. She was thrilled, she told the library, because while they were fishing, her sons didn’t fight and they didn’t ask to use their electronics.
Another customer checked out all 8 of the fishing poles that are available for borrowing, to use while she had relatives visiting from out of town.
“The mission of the Anne Arundel County Public Library is to educate, enrich and inspire our customers,” said Hampton “Skip” Auld, the Library CEO. “Given this county’s extensive shoreline and interest in water activities, we feel like this program is a good fit,” he added.
Here are the guidelines for borrowing fishing poles from AACPL:
“Fishing poles are checked out for two weeks and a fine of $1 per day will be assessed if returned late. Borrowers must have a library card with Anne Arundel County Public Library and assume all responsibility of the fishing pole and accessories. The library will not be held liable for any injury due to the fishing pole. Any fishing pole not returned will result in a replacement fee of $15. Fishing poles cannot be returned in the book drop, or left outside the library. There will be a $5 fee for fishing poles not returned to the circulation desk.”
