Libraries ditch late fees

GOT a novel that you keep telling yourself you’ll finish? You no longer need to worry about paying a fee, as Goldfields Libraries recently joined the number of facilities across the country not charging for overdue items.

The service, which includes Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat and Castlemaine libraries, hasn’t charged fines since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, however the change was officially implemented in July.

Goldfields Libraries CEO Mark Hands said the idea is to remove a financial barrier for many people.

“Public libraries are all about providing free and universal access to information,” he said.

“Life is hectic. A small fine just because you returned a library book a few days late shouldn’t be a barrier to library access, but for some, it is.

“Removing fines means everyone can enjoy the library without worry, borrow as many books and DVDs as they can carry, and keep coming back for more.”

According to a statement from Goldfields Libraries, other like services that have removed fines have reported an increase in visitors and borrowings.

“We’re following the lead of many other public libraries, and it’s becoming clear that library fines do not encourage borrowers to bring their items back on time,” Mr Hands said.

“In fact, it may deter them from borrowing at all.

“Other library services have done the math and found that the cost of imposing fines was actually greater than the revenue they collected.”

Rather than pay a fine, members with items over 21 days late on their account will not be able to borrow, and charges still apply for lost or damaged items.

All historical fines have also been removed from members’ cards.