Skip to content

Brooklyn Public Library Does the Right Thing

I’m over the moon about the New York Public Library’s decision to end late fees.  A couple of years ago I wrote about how the library was turning over poor, working moms to a collection agency for as little as $50 in late fees with little to no warning. That was horrible. That could ruin someone’s credit and snowball into not being able to buy a car or get an apartment. It is possible that the library could have caused a family to become homeless. So, I really wanted them to stop using the collection agency, but they did something even better — they ended fines altogether. It is unclear how they will meet the budget shortfall, but they are doing the right thing.

No More Late Fees

  • New Yorkers of all ages will no longer need to pay any late fines on overdue materials
  • In the past, library cards were blocked if they accrued $15 or more in fines; that will no longer be the case
  • New Yorkers will still need to pay replacement fees if they lose material. Materials are considered lost after being overdue for about one month. If materials are returned, however, no fees will apply
  • Cards will be blocked from borrowing additional physical materials if patrons accrue replacement fees (thresholds differ per system); note that even with a block on their cards, patrons can still access computers, e-books, and other digital services.
NYPL President Anthony Marx said: “Some might say fines teach accountability and ethics. I disagree. We can teach New Yorkers to be responsible and return their items so others can use them without a financial burden. No one can learn responsibility at the Library if they can’t use the Library. Considering the size of the three systems, it has taken time, thoughtful discussion, and careful analysis to take this important step towards a more equitable library system. The time is now. We hope to see all New Yorkers at one of our branches soon.”

Check out the new policies here: https://www.bklynlibrary.org/use-the-library/borrow

Congratulations BPL and NYPL!

 

Related Posts:

 

My Library Heartache – Is This the End of My Love Affair?