The library suspended all fines in March 2020 amid the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. Now that once temporary change is becoming permanent.
The new rule means library customers will not be charged any overdue fines or fees for lost or damaged materials. Also, all current or outstanding fees have been forgiven.
The LPL says it made the decision because overdue fines disproportionately affect children and low-income households and may create financial barriers.
As for the cost, the library says it will not hurt the system because it would have to hire additional staff to resume charging the fines and fees – a move they say would actually cost the library 2-3 times the amount to be collected.
If an individual takes excessive advantage of the Fine Free rule, the library says it will handle those matters on a case by case basis.
