Lambton County Library eliminates fines for overdue materials

Wyoming, ON - Lambton County Library will join hundreds of libraries across North America and will stop charging fines on overdue library materials starting March 1, 2022.

Fines will stop accruing and all existing fines will be removed from library card holder accounts on March 1. Patrons will still be responsible for returning library items on time and fees charged for lost or damaged materials will still apply. Items that are not returned will be considered lost 30 days after an item’s due date, and borrowers will be charged replacement fees for those items.

The recommendation for change was approved by Lambton County Council’s standing committee in January and by full Council earlier today when Council voted in favour of removing fines to create a more accessible service. Research conducted by other libraries and library professional organizations has shown that overdue library fines disproportionately affect those with low or no income, who speak English as a second language, and do not act as an effective incentive to return materials. Research has also revealed that eliminating fines yields higher return rates and increases circulation and overall use of the library.

The Library eliminated fines on children’s materials in March of 2020 in an effort to ensure that children have access to library materials at an early age to build literacy skills that will benefit them for life. The elimination of fines on all library materials will remove barriers to ensure more equitable access to everyone in the community.

“We don’t want to penalize anyone for wanting to read, develop and learn,” said Darlene Coke, Manager, Library Services. “At the same time, we encourage our patrons to return items on time to ensure everyone has timely access to our materials. All materials will still have due dates, however the financial penalty will simply be removed unless the materials are not returned.”

The average revenue collected on fines over the past two years is $7,600, however the costs of collecting those fines can outweigh the revenue. According to the Ontario Library Association, hidden costs, including staff time, supplies for overdue notices, and payment fees, cost on average 20% more than the fine itself.

Lambton County Library serves residents through 25 libraries across Lambton County. Library membership is free to anyone who lives, owns property, works or attends school in Lambton County. Cardholders can borrow a variety of materials with their library card, including books, DVDs and snowshoes. Cardholders can also access thousands of electronic books, music, movies and audiobooks available with a variety of mobile apps.

To become a Lambton County Library cardholder call or visit your local library. For more information on locations, services and hours of operation visit www.lclibrary.ca.

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Please contact:
Darlene Coke
Manager, Library Services
County of Lambton
519-845-0809 ext. 5238
darlene.coke@county-lambton.on.ca