Arlington Public Library is taking steps to "eliminate financial barrier and provide a more equitable service."
The library just announced that they will no longer be charging patrons for returning overdue books, and all current fines will be wiped away. Permanently.
Now fees for damaged or lost items or any overdue charges for consortium or Interlibrary Loan items will still apply, but overdue fees will be completely waived.
By eliminating these fees, the APL is looking to eliminate financial barriers for patrons and make their service more equitable.
According to the library, overdue fees have done more harm to lower-income communities than it has to encourage on-time returns.
Library Director Norma Zuniga told WFAA, "This is a significant step in removing barriers to access. Becoming a fine-free library is our commitment to leveling opportunities for all patrons.
"By eliminating overdue fines, I hope we can reconnect with patrons who have not visited the library in a long time."
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