The Guelph Public Library says goodbye to overdue daily fines in an effort to provide a more equitable and accessible service to all.
The new policy was approved by the library board last year and went into effect on January 1.
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“It’s time to turn a new page and a new chapter in library services by breaking down these financial barriers and welcoming everyone into our space,” said library CEO Steven Kraft.
“If you were avoiding the library because of late fees, don’t worry. Your library account has been deleted. We look forward to helping you reconnect with our services, collections and resources. »
Most library items will now be borrowed for a two-week period. They will then automatically renew for two more weeks with a maximum of three renewals as long as they have not been requested by someone else.
In a statement, the library said patrons are still responsible for items they borrow and must still be returned.
The library will continue to charge fees for lost or damaged items as well as replacement fees for items overdue by 21 days or more.

Wait times for popular items are not expected to increase significantly, the library said.
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The library cited a 2020 study from Syracuse University that showed U.S. libraries that weren’t fined experienced faster returns of overdue books.
You can find more information about the new program on the library’s website.
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