Reconsidering overdue fines in the midst of a pandemic

Abstract

Fines place a negative light on libraries and create a barrier to access that is most damaging to low-income groups. Recognizing the harm, public libraries have implemented programs and new policies to reduce or eliminate fines, which have consistently been met with positive comments and an influx of item returns. Many academic libraries have followed, resulting in different impacts on return rates and overdue items. The coronavirus pandemic has taken a financial toll on college students and sped up the process of going fines free at the University of North Texas Libraries. While there are plenty of arguments both for and against fines to be discussed, forgiving fines certainly puts libraries in a favorable position.

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