Multnomah Library Ends Late Fines for Kids

The Multnomah County Library wants to do everything that they can to encourage kids to use the library and read.

So, with their Summer Reading program about to start, they are doing away with late fees for all users under 18-years-old.

"For many, late fines are a real barrier that stops children and families from using and benefiting from the resources the public library offers," said Director of Libraries Valley Oehlke.

The library makes it clear, they still want people to return the items they check out. And if the item is lost, they will be charged for a replacement.

But the important thing is to get kids in to the library to read.

"Exposing children early to a world rich with words, songs and play helps them become readers and succeed in school and in life," says Oehlke.