* * *Grand Rapids Public Library Eliminates All Overdue Fines* * 1. GRAND RAPIDS (June 8, 2020)The Grand Rapids Public Library has eliminated fines on all overdue materials. Overdue material will no longer accrue fines and accounts with old fines have been forgiven. 11,700 library accounts are currently blocked from using the library because of overdue fines. Library accounts with over $10 in fines are not able to check out materials or use digital collections. Revenue from overdue fines in 2019 was approximately .7% of the library’s budget. In 2019, GRPL eliminated all fines on youth material. Since then, there has been a 19% increase in the return of long overdue youth material and the average length of checkout only increased by one day. 84% of all checked out library materials are returned before the due date. 74% of overdue material are returned within the first week of being overdue. Library patrons will still be responsible for the replacement cost of items that are lost or damaged. “The decision to go fine free is about equity and access.” remarked GRPL Director John McNaughton. “Neighborhoods most impacted by library fines are also the neighborhoods with the lowest median income. Fines disproportionately affect those in the community that could use the library the most. ” In some areas of Grand Rapids, nearly 20% of residents are blocked from using the library because they have over $10 in fines. “Now, more than ever, we need to make sure that everyone in the city can use their library,” continued McNaughton. “The library shouldn’t be a source of stress or a burden. It should be the antithesis of that. So if you have never used the library--welcome. If fines have been keeping you away--welcome back.” The Grand Rapids Public Library is currently undergoing a phased reopening after being closed since March due to COVID-19. Library patrons can now return material to outside book drops and the new curbside hold service, GRPL To Go, begins June 29. Visit www.grpl.org/reopen <http://www.grpl.org/reopen>for more information. The Grand Rapids Public Library is key to a dynamic, creative, livable city where people come together to learn and be heard. ### Images: https://bit.ly/2XZEkrS *