Innisfil library begins new chapter, will eliminate fines as of July 1

NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF INNISFIL
*************************
The Innisfil ideaLAB & Library Board is thrilled to announce the elimination of overdue fines. The Library will become fine free as of July 1, Canada Day. All existing late fees for books, audiobooks, magazines, and media will be removed, and no new fines will be applied. Not only will being fine free help during this challenging time but it will permanently reduce barriers to service, assist the community, and support access to the Library for all.  

“Innisfil ideaLAB & Library is the first in Simcoe County to go fine free,” says Board Chair Monica Goodfellow. “By no longer charging fines on late items, we can ensure that all residents have access to library materials and services. We hope this will encourage prior users to come back to the library and attract new users to experience what we offer.”  

What fine free means for our Library customers:          

• You will no longer receive a late fine on overdue items.         
• You are still responsible for returning your items. We do want all items back!         
• The Library will send you a series of email reminders to return your items. Get in touch with us to sign up.          
• Items that are overdue by 21 days or more will be considered lost, and you will be billed for them. If you return the items, the bill will be cleared from your account and you won’t owe anything.

“Our community is stronger and healthier when people have access to the programs, services, and materials they need,” says Mayor Lynn Dollin. “Removing barriers and ensuring that all residents, especially children, are benefiting from the Library shows inclusivity along with a welcoming community space.”  

The Innisfil ideaLAB & Library has conducted research into fines and has found them to be in effective. Hundreds of libraries in North America and beyond have gone fine free in the last few years, and it has been found that customers still return the materials. In addition, it has also been found that the number of lost items does not change – but rather improves sometimes – as customers are no longer fearful of the consequences. The end result is that more users will borrow materials, and more of them will visit and use the services when fines are eliminated.  

The Innisfil ideaLAB & Library believes that everyone should have access the materials, services, and programs that support their educational, career, family and life goals.  The Library wants all residents to have the same opportunity to participate in everything we offer, and to be part of this great community, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

All branches currently remain closed however curbside pick-up is available at the Cookstown, Lakeshore and Stroud Branches. Drop-boxes are open to return materials at all four Library branches. All materials will be quarantined for 72 hours before being checked in. We encourage continued use of our online services and Digital Library and check out our virtual programming and live events. For more information and for Library updates straight to your inbox, sign up for our eNewsletter today.

*************************