ALGER PUBLIC LIBRARY

of The Upper Scioto Valley School District

Subject:  Overdue Fine Free Policy                                          Effective Date: 01/01/2024

Alger Public Library no longer charges fines for overdue items. There are no exceptions; all materials are covered! 

We’re joining hundreds of libraries nationwide in recognizing the studies that show overdue fines make it harder for communities to use library resources and are not effective in getting materials back. For the last several years, libraries that have ended overdue fines found it led to an increase in patrons, an increase in returns, and an increase in positive patron experiences. Ending overdue fines is good for the community and good for the library, and we’re so proud to make this a formal policy.

ARE ALL CHARGES ELIMINATED? 

Ending overdue fines does not mean ending all charges. For example, if materials are kept too long beyond their final due date, then a lost item replacement cost is still charged. As always, lost charges are 100% canceled upon return of the item in good condition.  Also, a replacement cost may be charged if the item is damaged beyond repair.

ARE THERE STILL DUE DATES?

Yes. Our loan periods have not changed. All items have due dates and most are able to be renewed 3 times. Our staff can answer your questions about loan periods and due dates.

IF THERE ARE NO OVERDUE FINES, WILL PEOPLE RETURN ITEMS ON TIME?

Research shows that overdue fines are not as effective as most people think in getting library materials returned. Most people find the existing loan periods and up to 3 automatic renewals to be more than enough time to finish with materials. In addition, an account with 10 overdue items is unable to check out more materials until the ones they have are returned.

IS THERE A PENALTY FOR KEEPING MATERIALS AS LONG AS SOMEONE WANTS?

As overdue fines do not represent real costs to the library, they are punitive in nature and could be described as a penalty. However, never returning an item does represent a real cost to the library. Our lost item process has not changed. When an item is  65 days overdue, it goes to a “lost” status and the patron is charged the replacement cost of the item. Lost item charges are canceled when the items are returned.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT EXISTING OVERDUE BILLS?

We have canceled all existing overdue bills on items owned by Alger Public Library.  Many patrons in our community have already benefitted.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT OVERDUE ITEMS FROM OTHER LIBRARIES IN THE SEO CONSORTIUM?

Patrons may continue to see overdue fines on items owned by SEO libraries that are not fine free. However, items returned to Alger Library will not accrue fines. Our staff can answer more specific questions.

Date Policy approved by Board of Trustees: 1/1/2024