End Library Fines

> There is no study or research which shows that library fines function as a mechanism to encourage timely return of materials. Instead, they serve as an economic barrier that impedes access to library materials and services for the financially disadvantaged people within our communities, particularly minors.

As a high-school teacher, fines were a major reason many of my students didn’t use the library. Sometimes parents get library cards in a child’s name (I’ve done this) and then abuse it (I don’t do this, because libraries are such a valuable public resource and I’m not so stressed that I can’t easily act on my values). Sometimes the students are scared of facing the fines, thinking the librarian is going to act like a cop. I’ve helped a few students go to the desk and ask about the status of their account, and each time they were palpable relieved at the kindness and understanding of the librarian. Sometimes the debt was simply forgoven.

I both donate money to my local library and let fines pile up because I can afford to. Far more pressuring to me is a notification that another person wants what I’ve checked out; that lights a fire and I either hurry up or return it before I’m done, adding it to a list for later.

Nobody's access to the library is impeded by library fines. If you return the books on time, there's no fine.