East Brunswick Public Library Forgives All Late Fines For Kids

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — Hey kids, have an overdue book from the East Brunswick Public Library? You're in luck. Effective immediately today, Monday, April 9, the East Brunswick library is forgiving all overdue books and late fines on children's and young adult items.

It's a means to get children and teenagers more involved in their local library, and to encourage kids to read more, library organizers say. The East Brunswick library is already very popular in the community, and has a thriving children's and young adult section.

But it is a novel idea: East Brunswick Public Library joins Camden County Library as the only public libraries in New Jersey that do not fine kids or teens.

The fine forgiveness does not apply to kids or teens specifically, but it applies to any book, DVD, CD or item marked for the children's or teen sections. This will be in effect through the rest of 2018, said library spokesman Chris Barnes.

“There are a few public libraries that have been experimenting with eliminating library fines,” said East Brunswick Public Library Director Jennifer Podolsky. "Studies have shown that libraries have a positive impact on child development. Anything that we can do to increase accessibility to the library for families is important, as removing barriers to access is a key component of our strategic plan.”

“By sponsoring this program, the East Brunswick Public Library Foundation has really done something that will impact many families in town,” said Tracy Fink, president of the East Brunswick library board foundation. “We’re happy that this announcement coincides with National Library Week (April 8-14).”

Although overdue fines will not be charged, fees for lost and damaged items remain. Overdue notices will still be sent as reminders to return items. Items not returned within 21 days of the due date are considered lost, and the full cost of the item will be charged to the library customer’s account.

Shutterstock image