Long Beach Library Drops Most Overdue Fines

LONG BEACH, NY — "Seinfeld" had a library cop named Bookman, who in the series finale said of a 25-year unpaid book fine, "We don't call them delinquent after that long. [We call them] criminals."

Well, the Long Beach Public Library is no longer sharing that sentiment.

They have started the "We're Going (Mostly) Fine Free" program. Patrons will no longer be charged overdue fines for most items. Only new materials and special collections, such as iPads and laptops, will render the fees.

All kids and teen materials are now overdue fine-free.

The new policy went into effect on April 3. All previously accrued fines and fees assessed have been cleared by the library.

However, the library will bill replacement fees for items lost, damaged or more than a month overdue.