You heard it right- CPPL has gone fine-free!
Libraries across North America are ending the practice of fines on overdue materials, and CPPL is proud to be joining them. Now, when you borrow most library materials, you won’t have to worry about financial repercussions for returning an item a few days late.
Why did we decide to go Fine Free?
Late fees are a barrier to access for people who depend on library services. Did you know that in 2021, Carleton Place Public Library had 2193 users with fines? Of those, 680 had fines over $10, the threshold which blocks their accounts from use. Of those 680 with blocked cards, 186 were children under the age of 14. By inordinately affecting children and other vulnerable populations, library fines are in opposition to CPPL’s core values of providing equitable access and opportunity.
Are there any exceptions?
Yes. Fines will still accrue on our museum and park pass collections, as well as all interlibrary loan materials. Replacement fees for lost or damaged items will also remain in effect. Please visit our Loan Period and Fines page for more information.
What is happening to my outstanding fines?
As of April 29, 2023, all outstanding fines have been cleared. This applies only to overdue fines; fees for lost or damaged materials remain on all accounts.
How will this affect the library’s budget?
Library fines are not a large source of revenue. In fact, with the rising popularity of eBooks and other digital materials that do not accrue overdue fines, revenues from fines have been in decline for years. Library fines also take dedicated staff time to process, and can be a source of negative interactions at the circulation desk. Ending the practice of library fines will allow us to spend more time focusing on positive patron interactions, and keep our most vulnerable users coming back!
How will you encourage on-time returns?
Libraries that have gone fine-free before us have not reported any increase in overdue materials. In fact, many report that when they went fine free and forgave outstanding fines, it encouraged the return of long-overdue materials to the library. Better still, our own experience at CPPL confirms this. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the library went fine-free from 2020 to 2021. During that time, library staff noticed no significant increase in overdue materials.
Patrons will continue to receive notifications of overdue materials, and will receive a bill for material that is not returned.
I liked that my fines were going towards my library. Can I still contribute in some other way?
Absolutely! Our friendly staff will gratefully accept donations at the circulation desk. Carleton Place Public Library is a registered charity, and we will issue a tax receipt for donations of $10.00 or more. You can also donate online.
I still have questions!
Feel free to reach out to one of our friendly staff at 613-257-2702 or library@carletonplace.ca.