Joliet Public Library Won't Fine You Anymore

JOLIET, IL — The Joliet Public Library announced Friday that it will now join several other Illinois libraries that no longer charge fines for overdue materials on most of their collection. The library's Board of Trustees voted in favor of this policy change.

“The library is a welcoming place for everyone, and fines disproportionately affect those in our community who need us the most,” Joliet Public Library Executive Director Megan Millen said in a news release. “Studies over the years have never found proof that fines incentivize patrons to return materials more quickly. What unpaid fines actually do is prevent patrons from returning to the library.”

Under the new fine free policy, patrons will still be encouraged to return materials in a responsible and timely manner, but they will no longer be charged daily overdue fines on most items. Interlibrary loans, Playaway Launchpads, Most Wanted Collection and video games will still accrue daily overdue fines. Patrons will also still be responsible for replacement charges for lost or damaged items. The fine free policy will apply to future fines. Amnesty opportunities for past fines will be available soon.

The library’s new borrowing structure will also include:

• Amnesty Initiatives: Trade canned goods or other material donations for previously issued fines to donate to local food pantries and animal shelters.
• Materials 7 Days Overdue: Patron account will be blocked at 7 days overdue and billed for the replacement cost at 14 days overdue. Increasing the fine threshold from $10 to $50: Blocked patron accounts will not be able to check out materials when replacement costs reach $50.

The Joliet Public Library is a resource for the Joliet community to read, explore, ask and discover. For more information, visit https://jolietlibrary.org/ or call 815-740-2660. Library hours are Monday–Thursday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Friday–Saturday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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