Bexley latest system to dump overdue fi nes

The Bexley Public Library is the most recent local library system to eliminate fines for overdue materials.

The new policy took effect Saturday, following a vote by the library’s Board of Trustees.

Fines make up a “very small percentage” of the library’s budget, especially since an automatic-renewal system began in 2015. That means the financial impact will be minimal for operations but significant for patrons, thenlibrary Director Rachel Rubin said on Friday.

Friday was her last day with the Bexley Public Library; Rubin is now Capital University’s director of library and information services.

“Overdue fines can be a real barrier to accessing library materials, especially for children,” Rubin said.

Ideally, the policy will help reduce the library’s number of lost or missing items, she said.

Bexley’s new policy does not apply to existing overdue fines through June 30.

Fees for lost or damaged items will still be levied. For materials that exceed 35 days past due, patrons will be billed a replacement fee until the item is returned. It will be refunded if the patron returns the item, excluding a $10 service fee. The library will continue to send notices of overdue items and eventually refer problematic accounts to collection agencies.

In the past year, the Columbus Metropolitan Library, the Delaware County District Library and Worthington Libraries have gone fine-free. The Grandview Heights Public Library, Southwest Public Libraries, the Upper Arlington Public Library and the Westerville Public Library still charge them, according to their websites.