EVPL Eliminates Fines

EVPL Eliminates Fines

Beginning September 1, 2018, the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library will no longer charge or collect fines on overdue materials. Removing fines opens access to materials and resources.

Why is EVPL eliminating overdue fines?
Fines can be a barrier for some people, especially children, and we want everyone to share in all EVPL has to offer.

What is the difference between a fine and a fee?
Fines are punitive charges for being overdue.  Fees are for library services and products such as copying, printing, material replacement costs, etc. Additionally, materials borrowed through Interlibrary Loan may be subject to late fines from the lending library.

What happens if I forget to return materials?
While library materials will not accrue fines, a replacement cost will be assessed if an item is not returned within 30 days after its due date. Once the billed item is returned, the replacement cost will be waived.

Will I still receive reminders about returning materials?
A reminder email will be sent three days prior to an item being due. After an item is overdue, reminder emails will be sent at approximately 2 days overdue and then an additional notice 14 days after that. If the item is not returned 30 days after the due date, the item will be considered lost and a bill will be sent for replacement costs.

How will this affect due dates?
Although there are no fines, materials will still have the usual due dates and we expect patrons will return items to the library in the same time-frame as they did before. If an item is not returned within 30 days after its due date a replacement cost will be assessed.

How is EVPL’s budget affected by the loss of fine income?
The collection of fines was a small percentage (less than 1%) of EVPL’s income for 2017.