Solano County Library is turning the page on the long-held practice of charging fines for over-due materials. Beginning July 1, 2020, the Library will eliminate overdue fines on library materials and stop collecting previously accrued overdue fines.
Solano County Library is committed to providing equal access to every member of the community and eliminating fines offers cardholders a fresh start to rediscover all that their library has to offer. By eliminating fines, the Library is removing barriers and making access easy, equitable and enjoyable for everyone. Existing fines for overdue items will be forgiven to ensure that everyone can start a new chapter at their now fine-free libraries. Fees for lost or damaged items will remain on the users account.
Overdue library fines and fees account for less than one percent of the Library’s revenue. The Library will absorb the loss in revenue in its operating budget.
Under the new policy, patrons are still encouraged to return their materials on time. As incentive, patrons will be blocked from checking out further items if the items are not returned within fourteen days of the due date. “This fine free policy will reduce barriers to access, while also including measures to protect library materials,” says Bonnie Katz, Director of Library Services. “Eliminating fines reflects core values of Solano County Library— to be accessible, to be welcoming, and to ensure we are promoting reading, not preventing it.”