Tired of overdue fines? Wouldn't it be nice to get those email notifications prior to being late for a change? Library Elf has come to the rescue, a free web-based service based in Vancouver BC, designed for library users who easily lose track of materials. It's especially useful for parents who manage library cards for children, but it's a nifty tool for any borrower.

Elf reminds you of outstanding material exactly when you want it to. This can be x number of days before your items are due (between 1 and 7), on the due date itself, or on a certain day every week (say every Tuesday) before the due date. Advance reminders are what this service is best known for.

You'll continue to receive overdue notices too (if necessary -- hopefully you won't need them anymore!), but again, you decide when: one day after the due date, or every day after the due date until the items are returned. Likewise, Elf lets you know when your holds (requested items) are ready to be picked up at the front desk. You can even choose to receive text messages instead of emails for your holds, though be aware that your cell-phone carrier will probably charge you for this.

So don't wait another minute. Create an Elf account (all you need is your email address, library card number and PIN), follow the steps as they appear, and you'll soon be on the road to a happier, fine-free library experience.

(For more details see the Library Elf FAQs.)