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ATTENTION: Library Toilet Paper Thieves, You've Been Warned

By Eddie Small | November 6, 2015 12:35pm | Updated on November 8, 2015 6:48pm
 A sign at the NYPL's Morrisania branch threatens patrons with permanent expulsion from the library system if they are caught stealing toilet paper.
A sign at the NYPL's Morrisania branch threatens patrons with permanent expulsion from the library system if they are caught stealing toilet paper.
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DNAinfo/Eddie Small

The New York Public Library can't spare a square.

Toilet paper theft has become so prevalent at the Morrisania branch of the NYPL that librarians posted a sign warning patrons that stealing it is no minor crime, and punishment will be severe.

"Stealing is punishable by the law," the sign reads. "If you are caught stealing the bathroom tissue from dispenser, you will be barred permanently from all New York Public Libraries."

The sign also warns readers that the bathroom will be inspected "immediately after each person leaves" to see if any tissue is missing or if the dispenser has been messed with.

To make the message abundantly clear, the sign includes a picture of a person in handcuffs as well.

Although patrons can be banned for stealing library property, this is used as a last resort, and toilet paper theft likely would not qualify, according to NYPL spokeswoman Angela Montefinise.

Staffers at the Morrisania branch put the sign up three months ago but took it down Friday — after DNAinfo New York asked about it — because it is not an official library sign, she continued.

However, if you remain responsible with your toilet paper usage anyway, we're sure Elaine Benes will appreciate it.