Putting the “Free” In Alameda Free Library
Published on September 09, 2019
PRESS RELEASE
September 9, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Jane Chisaki, Library Director
510-747-7747
Putting the “Free” In Alameda Free Library
It’s time to start a new chapter at the library! Beginning September 16, 2019, the Alameda Free Library will eliminate all overdue fines on all library materials and waive any previous fines. The Library understands life happens, and that it can be difficult to return items on time to the library. Late fines can add up and visiting the library can start to feel like a burden, especially on your wallet. That’s why we’re excited to announce that the Alameda Free Library is putting the “FREE” back in our library by saying farewell to fines!
The Library is committed to providing equal access to every member of our community and eliminating fines offers our customers a fresh start to rediscover the library and all that it has to offer. By eliminating fines, the library is removing barriers and making access easy, equitable and enjoyable for everyone. All existing library fines have been waived to ensure that all customers can start a new chapter at the now fine-free library. Of more than 79,000 cardholders in the City, over 26,000 customer accounts had overdue fines removed from their accounts, which included 8,000 cards for children.
The decision to eliminate fines was made by the Library Board with staff input and is supported by the Alameda City Council. Overdue fine transactions accounted for 82% of library customer transactions and the Alameda Free Library staff recognizes that the elimination of library fines will increase accessibility for all library customers. Eliminating overdue fines will also result in more positive customer interactions and allow staff to focus on creativity and exceptional service, as well as freeing up staff time to work on other projects.
The current three week check-out period will remain, but fines will not accrue if items are not returned on time. There will be the added convenience of two automatic renewals. However, if an item is on hold for another customer, it will not be renewed and the customer will be asked to return it. Please remember, in order to ensure everyone has plenty of books to enjoy, customers will still be responsible for books that are not returned. In addition, the library will still have fees for the replacement of library cards and printing.
The Alameda Free Library is joining many other Bay Area libraries, and libraries across the country, who have gone fine-free. The Library is committed to sharing information and resources with all members of our community. Along with over 220,000 books, the Alameda Free Library also has DVDs, Blu-rays, board games, puzzles, audiobooks, seeds, and garden tools that customers can check out. The Alameda Free Library offers multiple digital streaming services and ebooks, audiobooks, and digital magazines that customers can access. And the Alameda Free Library hosts special events and recurring programs every month for children, teens, and adults.
To encourage returning library customers who may have lost their library cards, the library is waiving the fee for replacement library cards until October 31. All returning and new library customers are invited to check out something new and attend an event! It is the Library’s sincere hope that library customers will continue to utilize all resources and make many return trips to the library.
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