November 21, 2022 — The Newton Public Library announced this week that they are going fine free for all late materials. This includes past overdue charges.
“We paused collection of overdue fines in 2019, as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, so many patrons have already noticed the lack of fines when they turned items in a few days late,” said Dr. Cari Cusick, library director. “Now our library’s board of trustees has formally voted to change our policy and keep us fine free, permanently.”
A growing trend among libraries in Kansas and across the country, going fine free allows for more people to use the library services. A fine should not prohibit you from enjoying the library’s materials. A 2016 Colorado State Library system report showed that eliminating overdue fines removed barriers to access for children.
Some have asked if this is going to hurt libraries financially. According to David Sye at Murry State University, “While Blockbuster might have hinged its finances on late fees, libraries do not. For example, in 2018 fines & fees only accounted for ~1% of revenue at the Indianapolis Public Library system.”
“If you are someone who has hesitated to use the library because of concern about overdue fees that you – or your kids – might accidentally incur, then this policy change is for you,” Cusick said. “Please come and use the library!”