The Callander Public Library is going fine-free for overdue materials.
The library board approved the move effective Tuesday, November 30th.
“In recent years, hundreds of libraries in North America have transitioned to a fine-free model and have reported very positive results,” said Melissa Sones, CEO of the Callander Public Library. “For some people fines create a barrier to accessing library materials, just the idea of accruing fines is enough to prevent them from using the library.”
She says overdue fines disproportionately impact children and families who can’t afford them.
“The bottom line is that the library is here for everyone and so long as library materials are returned to the library, patrons can continue to borrow items,” says Sones.
The library has actually been fine-free since the start of the pandemic.
“As we start coming out of the pandemic it was necessary for the board to decide if they wanted to continue with it being a fine-free library or if they wanted to implement fines again and the decision was made to remove fines completely,” she says.
Over that time they say they’ve seen an increase in items being returned before the due date and a significant drop in the number of items not returned.
Those borrowing items from the library will need to return all overdue items before they are able to borrow a new item.
They will also still be charged to replace lost or damaged items.
