What does “Fine Free” mean for Helen Plum Library?
Beginning Nov 1, Helen Plum Library will permanently eliminate fines assessed for overdue items. We will also adjust the overdue item notification schedule (see table below) to decrease the time between email notifications and billing to encourage everyone to return materials in a timely manner. Fees will still be assessed for lost and damaged materials.
Overdue Notification & Billing Schedules
|
|
Current Schedule |
Proposed Schedule |
1st Overdue Notice |
7 days overdue |
3 days overdue |
2nd Overdue Notice |
10 days overdue |
7 days overdue |
3rd Overdue Notice |
N/A |
14 days overdue |
Item Billed & Patron Account Blocked* |
30 days overdue |
21 days overdue |
*Note: When library cards are blocked, patrons cannot check out materials, access online resources, or request ILL materials until the item is paid for or returned.
Why adopt the “Fine Free” practice?
Helen Plum Library is joining over 60 regional public libraries that have already eliminated overdue fines in favor of improved customer service and equity. Fines disproportionately impact children and community members experiencing financial insecurity. Additionally, many patrons rely on others for transportation to the Library and may not personally control the time between visits.
Resolving overdue fines is a difficult public interaction that happens at the entrance of the Library and is easily overheard. Our goal is to provide a shared collection for our community, not to embarrass or reprimand our community members for being unable to return books and other materials on time.
Putting Concerns at Ease
Libraries who have stopped charging overdue fines find that the materials are returned in a timely manner, and many are seeing an increase in the number of items returned. This could lead to shorter hold times and fewer permanently lost items.
In 2020, the Helen Plum Board approved temporarily eliminating overdue fines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this trial period, we learned that the revenue gained from collecting overdue fines contributed less than 0.1% to our general fund revenues. There is virtually no financial benefit to keeping overdue fines.
We are confident in the Board’s decision to permanently eliminate overdue fines and are grateful to offer better customer service to our community.