(KNSI) – Changes are coming with the New Year at Great River Regional Library.
Starting January 3rd, there will be no late fees on overdue materials at the GRRL. According to Brianne Johnson, Communications and Development Coordinator with the library, “fines-free” is becoming a buzzword in the business.
“We began the elimination of overdue fines back in 2019, with children and teen materials. Right now, many other library systems have been looking at it. Our users have identified that transportation and finances are the most significant barriers to people who need library services the most. For people who have transportation issues or rely on the public or a parent, returning materials can be really difficult. And when those fines begin to accrue, it can be another bill or expense for a family.”
Johnson says the loss of overdue fines shouldn’t present a hardship on the library.
“In evaluation, it is a declining revenue source and is only about 1% of our budget. So it is unreliable and unguaranteed. We have been able to see more local support through fundraising to help balance or offset that.”
The changes take place on January third, the first day the GRRL is open in 2022.
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