Pleasanton Library Ends Overdue Fines, No More Late Fees

PLEASANTON, CA — The Pleasanton Public Library no longer charges daily overdue fines, and any existing daily fines patrons have on their accounts have been wiped away, the city announced Wednesday. Instead, when books or other eligible library materials are not turned in by the due dates, the items will be automatically renewed at no charge.

The move comes after a majority vote on the issue from Pleasanton City Council during Tuesday night's regularly scheduled council meeting.

The policy change is a trend throughout California libraries, including Contra Costa County, Alameda County, San Mateo County, Berkeley and Livermore Public Libraries, and many others around the country.

Officials hope the change will provide greater library use by removing a negative model that penalizes patrons for not returning items on time.

“At a time when the Pleasanton Public Library is working to grow its community connection and
reach more people in the community, turning each of those negative transactions into positive
interactions could have an impact on the perception and role of the library in our community,” said Heidi Murphy, library and recreation director.

Although fines for overdue items are now a thing of the past, patrons can still expect to be charged replacement fees for lost and/or damaged materials.