SAPL : San Antonio Public Library To Discontinue Overdue Fines For All Users Beginning Oct 1

Press release from the San Antonio Public Library:

Victoria Villarreal

4 October 2021

SAN ANTONIO (September 27, 2021) — With the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2022 budget by City Council, San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) will no longer charge overdue fines for materials returned late to the library. Discontinuation of fines will be effective beginning October 1, 2021.

SAPL’s elimination of overdue fines is an important change that breaks down financial barriers to access library services and resources.

“Libraries are for everyone,” said Paul Stahl, Chair of the SAPL Board of Trustees. “No one should be afraid to visit or use the services at their local library because they are worried about owing money if their book is returned late. The Library Board of Trustees extends our thanks to City Council and the City Manager’s Office for their support and stewardship of this important initiative.”

Ending overdue fines is a significant milestone in SAPL’s continued effort to promote access to library services, expanding on a pilot program launched in 2019 that eliminated similar fines on materials for children and teens.

“SAPL has made great strides over the years in making library services increasingly accessible for San Antonians,” said Ramiro S. Salazar, Director of San Antonio Public Library. “From building new facilities to offering innovative services, SAPL is always focused on promoting greater access to the library. Eliminating overdue fines is yet another example of the Library’s dedication to providing inclusive and equitable access to library services for everyone.”

While those who currently owe library fines will still be responsible for paying their fines, SAPL urges patrons with existing late fines to reach out to their local branch library or call 210-207-2500. Library users can discuss reasonable options to pay their fines over an extended period of time. Payment plans are available, and as long as a library user pays toward their balance on a regular basis, their library privileges will not be suspended.

SAPL’s elimination of overdue fines follows a growing movement nationwide and internationally to break down barriers to library access and encourage use of library services. Library systems from Chicago Public Library to the Los Angeles Public Library have eliminated overdue fines in recent years. A full map of fine-free libraries is available from the Urban Libraries Council.

For more information including San Antonio Public Library locations and services, visit mysapl.org. Library staff is available by phone at 210-207-2500 or by chat at ask.mysapl.org.

The San Antonio Public Library: changing lives through the power of information, imagination, and ideas.

For more than 110 years, the award-winning San Antonio Public Library (SAPL), has been a vital center for free learning, knowledge, communication, culture and enjoyment within the City of San Antonio and for all Bexar County residents. The Library system is comprised of a world-class Central Library, 28 branch libraries and a library outlet at the Briscoe Western Art Museum. Collections include an extensive selection of eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies and music as well as physical items such as printed books and DVDs. All locations provide access to Wi-Fi broadband internet, computers and other digital technology. In addition, Central Library and branches offer programs to serve the needs and interests of the community, including programs for all ages that support early childhood literacy, education, culture and economic development. For more information, visit mysapl.org. Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @mysapl.

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This press release was produced by the San Antonio Public Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.