Idea Exchange eliminates fines on overdue material

The Idea Exchange has permanently eliminated all overdue fines on late materials in order to reduce barriers to service.

The move to go fine free brings the Cambridge libraries in line with other libraries across North America, including Kitchener, Hamilton and Brantford, that saw the punitive measure as a barrier to service.

“The pandemic has highlighted the increased need in our community for barrier-free library service,” Idea Exchange CEO Helen Kelly said in a press release.

“Fines are punitive and stand in the way of the core library value of providing equitable services. They disproportionately impact families with young children, teens and newcomers. With the forgiving of previous fines and release of blocked accounts we look forward to welcoming back those that need our services the most.”

Over the past few years, Idea Exchange has been improving access to reading materials and supporting early learning and youth literacy with the elimination of overdue fines.

Since 2011 there have been no fines on baby cards for birth to three years of age; in April 2020, fines were eliminated on children’s print materials; and during the pandemic the entire collection has been fine free for everyone, the release said. 

Since going fine free during the global pandemic, Idea Exchange staff have noticed materials are being returned without the penalty of fines. It's a trend reported by other libraries that have gone fine free: people were more inclined to return their materials and start using the library again, as they no longer had worries about paying a fine, said the release. 

With the goal of eliminating fines entirely, Idea Exchange has been gradually reducing its reliance on fines.

Fines collected have steadily declined as the popularity of online collections have increased and with the addition of courtesy email due date reminders.

The reminders made it possible for Idea Exchange to take the step while continuing to rely on donations in support of services.

Idea Exchange will continue to charge replacement and processing fees for items that have not been returned after 27 days past their due date and for items that are returned damaged.