YOUR library is now fine free! We no longer charge fines on late items. This ensures that all people have access to library books and materials, which is our primary purpose as a public library. Here you’ll find information about this new policy and how it affects you.

WHY GO FINE FREE?

It’s good for our community. Our community is stronger and healthier when people have access to the programs, services, and materials they need to pursue their educational, career, family, and life goals. We hope this will encourage prior users to come back to the library and attract new users to experience our offerings.

Late fines are not effective. Studies have shown that small fines have no impact on return rates. According to “Removing Barriers to Access,” a Colorado State Library whitepaper:  “Research on the impact of library fines and fees does not indicate a clear benefit to to administering these policies and may be costly to enforce.”

It’s fiscally responsible. Due to the rise in electronic materials (which do not accrue late fines) and other factors, fines are not a sustainable form of revenue for the library. Money collected from fines and fees has gone down steadily for the past ten years, especially with the advent of auto-renewals.

 

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU

  • You will no longer receive a daily late fine on overdue items.
  • You are still responsible for returning your items. We do want all items back!
  • The library will send you reminders to return your items.
  • Materials that are 28 days overdue are assumed lost and the cardholder must either return the item or pay to replace the item.
  • Past replacement fees and processing charges for lost or damaged items still apply.
  • If you have overdue fines from Andover Public Library that you accrued before we went fine free, you are no longer required to pay these fees. We have cleared many of the accounts, but if you still have a fine that appears on your account, please let us know.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  1.  Do I still have to pay a fine that was on my account prior to Andover Public Library going fine free?
     If you’ve returned all materials, your fine has been waived.
  2. Fines have been waived, so why does my account still have a balance?
     While Andover Public Library is doing away with overdue fines, fees for lost or damaged materials remain.
  3. How will the Library get people to return borrowed materials?
    “No fines” does not mean “no responsibility.” Materials that are 28 days overdue are assumed lost and you will be billed for the replacement cost.
  4. Will I still receive reminders about returning materials?
    Yes.  You will continue to receive reminders.
  5. How is the Library budget affected by the loss of fine income?
    Overdue fines on average make up less than one quarter of one percent of the Library’s annual budget.
  6. I’ve always thought of paying my fines as my donation to the library. Can I still donate?
    Yes! Now and in the future, donations to the Library are welcome. Your donation will support Library programs and services.