Fine Free FAQs

1. What does fine-free library service at BCPL mean for me?
   It means that you will no longer be charged a fine for items returned after their due date. It does not mean that you don’t have to return your library materials. You are responsible for any items checked out on your library card. Please bring them back so that others can borrow them.
   
   Items that are three weeks past their due date will be billed to your account as Lost. If you return the item 12 months the lost charge will be removed from your account.
   
   
2. Are all items fine-free?
   Yes! We have made all items fine-free and will be monitoring the process for any necessary adjustments.
   
   
3. Why are you going fine-free?
   BCPL recognizes that fines are a barrier to access for many people, including seniors and children. We want everyone to be able to use our collections; studies have shown that fines make people avoid using the library. Studies have also shown that fines do not work as an incentive for people to return materials on time. In fact, many libraries have reported an increase in the number of items returned by the due date after going fine-free.
   
   
4. Are other libraries fine-free?
   Yes! Hundreds of libraries in Ontario and Canada are now fine-free. Fine Free Libraries in Canada (librarianship.ca)
   
   
5. What about my existing overdue fines?
   Any outstanding overdue fines will be removed from your library account. Any outstanding charges for items that were lost or damaged will still exist and need to be paid.
   
   
6. I always thought of my fines as a donation to the Library. Can I still make a donation?
   Yes! We appreciate any donation you’d like to make to BCPL as we make this change. Please see our Donations page for more information or speak to library staff.
   
   
7. What about that item I borrowed 5 years ago (or more)?
   Bring it back! We’ll be happy to see you again and will remove any replacement costs from your account.  You won’t be charged for bringing it back late.
   
   
8. I haven’t been to the library in a long time. Will my card still work?
   We’d love to see you again! Please come to one of our 17 branches, or visit the Bookmobile. We may be able to reactivate your account or issue you a new library card.
   

Still have questions? Libraryinfo@brucecounty.on.ca