Auburn, Ala. (EETV) - The Auburn Public Library will no longer charge patrons overdue fines, effective Oct. 1, 2017, a policy change that was approved by the Auburn Public Library Board during their August meeting. Over the next several weeks, library staff will begin waiving overdue fines on patron accounts and explaining the policy change to patrons.
“One of the guiding principles of our strategic plan is that policies exist to make the library easier, not harder, to use,” said Library Director Chris Warren. “I’m pleased that our board has moved forward with this decision, and I’m confident that it will help us create a friendlier and more welcoming destination for our community.”
The board’s decision is intended to make the library accessible to as many people as possible. Approximately 15 percent of registered patrons can no longer use the library because of the fines and fees on their accounts. Some who have accrued these overdue fines can’t afford to pay them, and many of these patrons—including families and young children—often rely on library resources the most. By eliminating overdue fines, the library board hopes to see more people using the library over the next several months.
Patrons will still be held responsible for the items that they borrow. For example, patrons with overdue items will not be able borrow any additional items. Once an item is 30 days overdue, the patron will be charged and billed for the replacement cost of the item. However, if the patron returns the item, any replacement charges will be waived. The library will also send out more frequent reminders and notices so that patrons are aware of what items they have borrowed and when those items are due.
Books on a shelf
