| Support Libraries | Fines-free public libraries in Georgia
Many Georgia public library systems have opted to go fines-free and eliminate late fees charged for overdue materials. Libraries have seen an increase in patron visits and materials circulation.
Eliminating overdue fines removes financial barriers to using the library, provides more equitable access for everyone in the community, and welcomes back patrons who previously avoided visiting the library because they owed fees.
“We learned that anything a library can do to increase foot traffic, especially for families and children, is likely to pay huge dividends for a community over time,” said Darla Chambliss, director of the Northwest Georgia Regional Library System.
“Removing fines ensures that the library remains accessible to everyone, promoting a culture of learning and exploration without financial barriers. Going fines free furthers our mission to empower people, raise aspirations, and build quality of life in the communities we serve.”
Beth McIntyre, Piedmont Regional Library director
Promoting youth literacy is another reason libraries have gone fines free. Fines-free policies align with the Georgia Council on Literacy’s focus on the importance of removing barriers to reading, especially for underserved families.
Several public libraries have also partnered with local school districts across Georgia to offer fines-free student library cards through the PINES Library Access for Youth (PLAY) program, giving more than half a million Pre-K through 12th grade students access to public library resources to help them succeed in school.
The PINES network of 300 member libraries provides cardholders free access to books and other materials throughout the state by delivering items to their local library.