Library decides to eliminate late fees

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KINGSTON — The local library has decided to no longer charge patrons late fees and is in the process of erasing current ones.

As of now, 16,326 patrons owe fees, with 913 of those unable to take out items from the library because they owe more than $20 in fees. Of the patrons who owe fees, a little more than 6,000 of them haven’t used the library this year.

“Removing this financial barrier will make a positive difference to so many,” Kingston Frontenac Public Library board chair Monica Stewart said. “It sends out a clear message that we are here for everyone — and our staff will be able to focus on the positive with our patrons, connecting them with everything the library has to offer.”

The decision to suspend overdue fines was made by the library’s board and was spurred by a recommendation by chief librarian and CEO Laura Carter.

“Hundreds of libraries across North America have already taken this step,” Carter said in Tuesday’s news release. “It’s a fundamental change to how we operate — essential to making our library truly equitable and accessible for all.”

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The fear of incurring fines has discouraged many from getting a library card, Carter said.

While the library is waiving late fees, it will still charge patrons for lost or damaged materials.

“While you may suspect that removing fines will result in fewer items returning on time, other libraries have seen continued respect for due dates along with an increase in borrowing,” Carter stated in the release.

“Our community values this shared resource. We’re confident most items will still come back home on time. But sometimes life gets busy, and getting items back a few days late shouldn’t be a cause for worry.”

While they will no longer accumulate overdue fines, patrons are still welcome to donate to the library, Carter said.

“Many people already donate regularly to help support library programs and services, or in appreciation for the work we do in the community,” she said, “and we are very grateful for that.”

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