Library Collection?

Question

My local library is trying to collect on books they say I never returned in 2003.... Funny thing is I havent used the local library in 10 YEARS so I know this is not mine!! How can they do this. I have ask the library to remove it and they wont help me, they just tell me to contact the collection agency. The collection agency is just telling me to pay it, They cant even PROVE IT!!!... All they will send me and a computer print out of a list of books and a timeline of the collection process. They state that this is all that is required by the FDCPA. I will not pay it... what can I do???????????

Answer 1

No, a computer print out and a time line is not proper validation.

You need to make a papertrail when you contact the collection agency. When you send them debt validation letters, be sure to send them certified mail return receipt (CMRRR).

I would suggest sending them another letter (CMRRR) and tell them that a computer print out is not validation by any stretch of the imagination. And that you are requesting proper validation. I don't know how many times you have sent letters to them but if you sent at least two, give them 15 days to respond to this letter.

If they don't respond or if they respond with the same crap, file complaints with the BBB, FTC, your attorney general and their attorney general. Include copies of the letters (yours and theirs) with your FTC and AG complaints.

Also, check your state laws to see if collection agency's are supposed to be licensed and/or bonded to collect in your state. Then check and see if they are licensed and/or bonded in your state.

I did a search on the credit repair site that I use and found a few library threads, so I think that the collection agency you are dealing with is probably the same...and they aren't known to be licensed alot of the time.

I'm listing the credit repair site, you might do a search on them and see if you come up with anything.

Answer 2

Echo is correct.

Follow her advice on the letter writing, and keep records of who you talk to.

If they still will not work with you, forget the advice about contacting the BBB, FTC, FBI, or AG, or any of those funny letter groups.

The correct spelling is S-U-E

It is illegal for anyone to put unvalidated debts on your credit history. Doing so is a violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and they can be sued for $1000, plus any damage this report may have caused you (higher interest fees, denied credit, etc...)

File a small claims court suit, it doesn't cost that much and you won't need a lawyer.

How much money are they trying to soak you for anyway?

Answer 3

Call the main library and talk to a supervisor and explain the situation. Good luck.


LC