Winfield Library goes fine free

Winfield Library, 0S291 Winfield Road, is permanently going fine free and will no longer charge any fines for materials returned after the due date.

Fines can be punitive to the most active and loyal patrons, and they can disproportionately affect lower-income households.

Libraries that have gone fine-free report positive public response as well as an increase of patrons returning to the library. In addition, most libraries that have gone fine free report that a majority of their patrons still return items on time.

If you have been delaying your return to the library because of fines, you no longer need to worry. Although there remains a cost for lost or damaged library materials, overdue fines have been removed and every library cardholder has a clean slate. The library also is continuing to automatically renew items with no pending holds up to two times. You will receive a notice when items are coming due and must be returned.

Winfield Library is excited to be following the practice of many libraries around the country and removing this potential barrier to library services.

For information, visit www.winfield.lib.il.us or call (630) 653-7599.