Library trial sees fines removed
Overdue books at libraries in Broadmeadows and within the City of Hume will no longer attract a fine.
In a trial to last 18 months, previous fines will also be wiped to reveal a clean slate for all library patrons. Mayor Carly Moore said the move to abolish the late fines had already been actively sought by more than 40% of Victoria’s public libraries.
She said the action had been met with positive results and indicated eliminating fines would make the borrowing process at libraries far more accessible, and not have a negative impact on existing borrowers, adding:
The Mayor said research had indicated that fines for being late had, in fact been counter-productive and the return of books as late fees became higher was less likely. The latest move to get rid of overdue fines at Hume libraries will ensure borrowing is not discouraged due to financial barriers.
Important innovations such as this are often conveyed to patrons via a strategic flyer printing campaign.
During the 18-month trial, which began on January 1, any item that has been overdue for more than 21 days will need to be returned before another item is able to be borrowed.
In a trial to last 18 months, previous fines will also be wiped to reveal a clean slate for all library patrons. Mayor Carly Moore said the move to abolish the late fines had already been actively sought by more than 40% of Victoria’s public libraries.
She said the action had been met with positive results and indicated eliminating fines would make the borrowing process at libraries far more accessible, and not have a negative impact on existing borrowers, adding:
“Local libraries thrive on a culture of sharing and we are trusting that our library visitors will do the right thing and return books in a timely manner.”
The Mayor said research had indicated that fines for being late had, in fact been counter-productive and the return of books as late fees became higher was less likely. The latest move to get rid of overdue fines at Hume libraries will ensure borrowing is not discouraged due to financial barriers.
Important innovations such as this are often conveyed to patrons via a strategic flyer printing campaign.
During the 18-month trial, which began on January 1, any item that has been overdue for more than 21 days will need to be returned before another item is able to be borrowed.