The Bridgeville Public Library is fine free. All items checked out at Bridgeville and returned to Bridgeville will not generate fines, including items that have been overdue for a long time.
Why are we doing this?
- Late fines are not effective. Studies have shown that small fines have no impact on return rates.
- It’s fiscally responsible: Due to the rise in eBooks (which don’t accrue late fines), and automatic renewals, fines are not a sustainable form of revenue for the library. Money collected from fines has gone down over the past five years and is expected to continue to decrease.
- A library should never be a financial burden in your life. We are stronger as a community when everyone has equal access to the programs, services, and materials they need to pursue their education, career, and life goals.
How does this impact you?
- We still want our items back! You are still responsible for returning your items.
- If you checkout or return materials to Bridgeville Library, you will no longer receive a daily late fine on overdue items.
- Most items will continue to be automatically renewed for you, unless they have a hold on them or lending period restriction. If you are signed up for email reminders, you will receive notices to remind you to return your items. You can also check your due date on your online account or call the library and we will be happy to help!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does this policy mean that I can keep my library materials forever?
No. All library materials will still have a due date. You will still need to return your items.
Will items from other ACLA libraries still accrue daily overdue fines?
Yes, materials that are checked out or returned to other libraries will still have fines, but if it is a Bridgeville item, we will waive the fine. Good news! About a third of libraries in the county are fine free.
What is the difference between a fine and a fee?
Fines: funds owed for overdue items
Fees: funds owed for replacement items and other manual charges