The Forest Park Public Library Board of Trustees and staff announce a new policy to eliminate Library fines beginning on May 4.
This new policy aims to decrease unnecessary punitive actions that keep Forest Parkers from using the Library and its resources.
“We’re very excited to make our fines free practice permanent! We know having fines can add stress and create barriers to access materials,” said Brooke Sievers, FPPL Board President. “As part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring everyone is welcome, permanently eliminating fines is the next step. It’s great to be able to take an extra week to finish that book and not be worried about paying late fees!”
FPPL joins many public libraries around the country in the growing movement of eliminating overdue fines. It has been found that these types of fines are an ineffective tool in encouraging the return of Library materials. This NPR article does a good job explaining this movement.
“The Library is only of value to those who have access to its resources, ensuring that as many people as possible have access is one of the most important goals we have. Fines are another barrier that prevent people from accessing our services and resources,” said Pilar Shaker, Library Director. “We hope that this new policy will help past patrons feel welcome to return, new patrons to feel excited to join, and current users to feel proud of their Library.”
Library patrons will still be responsible for returning items. If an item is overdue, patrons will get a late notice and their account will be blocked. If the item is not returned for 42 days after the due date, the patron will be billed. However, once the item is returned, the block and bill will be removed and no additional charges will be owed.
For more details, please see the Fine Free Q & A here.
If you have questions about your account or comments, please call 708-366-7171 or email askus@fppl.org.
The Forest Park Public Library has been serving the community of Forest Park since 1916. We provide a variety of services and resources that provide entertainment, education, and empowerment.