Williamsburg Regional Library decides to end overdue fines but there will still be a lost charges..
Williamsburg Regional Library Ends Overdue Fines
Press release from the Williamsburg Regional Library
Starting on 9/23/2021, Williamsburg Regional Library (WRL) patrons will no longer have to pay fines for overdue materials. The library eliminated overdue fines during the pandemic year, and at their September meeting, the library board of trustees voted to permanently extend that decision. Library director Betsy Fowler points out that “going fine-free is an important step for WRL as it ensures that money is no longer a barrier to the community getting library materials or services. Providing equitable access is one of the library’s core values, and this decision emphasizes our commitment to access for all.”
Libraries across the country are eliminating fines and finding that users who may have been reluctant to check out materials for themselves or their children are more comfortable using the library as a result. To better serve users’ needs for library materials, in July of 2021 the library began allowing most items to be renewed up to four times if they are not on hold for another user. Eliminating overdue fines is another step towards making the library a welcoming place for all members of the community. As circulation services director Alicia Phinney notes, “Our relationship with our users at the checkout desk has become so much more collaborative and positive since we stopped charging for overdue materials. Rather than being punitive, we are working with users on getting the materials back whatever situations they face.”
While patrons will no longer accrue fines on overdue materials, fees will still be charged for items that are lost or damaged. In order to make it easier for users to keep track of checked out items, WRL is implementing an enhanced reminder service for library materials. Users will receive a pre-overdue notice via email, text, or automated phone call three days before an item is due. They will then receive overdue notices at 1, 7, 14, and 21 days after the item is overdue.
At 30 days overdue, the item is declared lost, and charges will accrue. A final notice will be sent at 45 days. If the item is not returned or the fees paid at 60 days overdue, the account will be turned over to a collection agency for resolution.
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