News

Winfield Public Library Goes Fine-free

To ensure equitable access for all, WPL has become a fine-free library, adopting recommendations from the American Library Association. While fees for lost or damaged books remain, existing fines have been waived. Studies show that going fine-free has positive effects for the entire community.

Due to quarantine periods during COVID, WPL stopped charging for late materials in March 2020. Post-quarantine, WPL did not reinstate fines as research was gathered regarding the effect fines had on library usage. Based on data gathered, in July of 2022 the Library Board of Directors voted to waive all existing fines and discontinue them on almost all materials. Fines will still be charged for inter-library loan items and technology (such as eReaders). Fees for lost or damaged materials remain on accounts and will continue to be charged.

Libraries that have adopted fine-free policies have found that patronage has increased, borrowing of materials has increased, library card registration has increased, more library materials were returned, and staff time spent tracking fines was redirected to helping patrons. “With this change, we are encouraging people whose fines have stopped them from using the library to come back in – and we are also hoping that long-ago checked out books find their way back to us,” says Library Director Patty Wagner. “The library isn’t just for those wanting a book. We have public computers, free WIFI, study areas, newspapers, eBooks, a small meeting room, and more.”

Winfield Public Library materials will continue to have due dates and patrons will continue to be asked to respect those dates as other readers are eagerly awaiting the book’s return. While fines will not be charged for overdue items, the library’s policies suspending accounts for items 10 days overdue (until items are returned) and charging for long-overdue items remain.