NEWS RELEASE
GUELPH PUBLIC LIBRARY
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2022 is time for a fresh start! In an effort to provide more equitable and accessible services to all, the Guelph Public Library is no longer charging daily overdue fines as of Jan. 1.
“It’s time to turn a new page and chapter in library services by eliminating these financial barriers and welcoming everyone back into our space,” shares Guelph Public Library CEO Steven Kraft. “If you were avoiding the Library due to overdue fees, don’t stress. Your library account has been cleared. We look forward to helping you re-connect to our services, collections and resources.”
What Does Going Fine Free Mean to Me?
Most library items will now be checked out for a two-week time period. These items will be automatically renewed for another two weeks (up to a maximum of three renewals) as long as they have not been requested by someone else.
If the items cannot be renewed, then please return them promptly to any library location!
Additional details:
- Customers are still responsible for the library materials they borrow and these items still need to be returned.
- The Library will continue to charge fees for items that are lost and damaged as well as replacement fees for items that are 21 days overdue or longer.
- These new borrowing policies do not apply to materials checked out from our digital collections such as eBooks and eAudiobooks.
Wait times for popular items are not expected to increase significantly. Many libraries that have gone fine free have experienced quicker returns of overdue materials. Library staff will continue to monitor the holds list to ensure customers receive items in a timely manner.
To learn more about the Guelph Public Library’s Fine Free initiative and a list of frequently asked questions, visit www.guelphpl.ca/finefree, phone 519-824-6220 or email [email protected].
See you soon at your nearest neighbourhood library location! Welcome back!
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