Butte County Library Board Approves One-Year Amnesty Program for Overdue Books

During the Butte County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 26, 2025, a significant discussion centered around a proposed library amnesty program aimed at alleviating fines for overdue books. The initiative, set to take place in September, will allow patrons to return overdue items without incurring fines, provided they contact the library to clear their current fines. This program is designed to encourage community members to return books and engage more with library services.

One supervisor raised a question about the duration of the program, suggesting a reevaluation after one year instead of the proposed two years. The board ultimately decided to amend the proposal to a one-year timeframe, allowing for a review of the program's effectiveness before committing to a longer duration.

In addition to the amnesty program, the meeting included discussions about the identification of library books. All physical books are equipped with barcodes indicating they belong to the Butte County Library, which helps in tracking and returning misplaced items. The library frequently receives books from various sources, including schools and other library systems, ensuring that lost items can often find their way back.

The meeting also touched on the ability for patrons to pay fines online or at self-checkout machines, making the process more convenient. The board's decisions reflect a commitment to enhancing library accessibility and encouraging community participation.

As the meeting progressed, the board moved on to other agenda items, including a public hearing regarding service charges for county service areas. The discussions highlighted the board's ongoing efforts to address community needs and improve local services.