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Trustees begin discussion on eliminating overdue fines; ask for outside data and a presentation from neighboring systems
Summary
Board members discussed whether to eliminate overdue fines, reviewed local fine revenue data (about $18,000 annually with roughly $8,000 from non‑resident patrons), and agreed to invite a regional system representative for more evidence before deciding.
Trustees discussed a possible move to “fine free” circulation policies and requested more evidence and a presentation from system staff and neighboring libraries before taking action.
Chris, a staff member who compiled research for the board, provided studies and articles including an American Library Association piece, a New York Public Library study tracking effects three years after going fine‑free, a Syracuse University study titled “Unexpected benefits of eliminating library fines,” and an NPR article. The board discussed both equity and budget implications.
Trustees reviewed local revenue and fine data presented at the meeting: the library’s total fine receipts run near $18,000 annually; about $10,000 of that is from Franklin patrons (ecommerce and in‑person payments) and about $8,000 was paid by patrons from other libraries. Board members noted that when nearby libraries (Greenfield, Shorewood, Tulsa, Tosa) removed fines the expected return-rate problems did not clearly materialize at least in some peer reports; Tosa staff reported no net increase in overdue percentages after going fine‑free for children’s materials.
Why it matters: eliminating fines shifts a small-but-visible revenue line and has operational and equity implications. Trustees said they were sympathetic to removing barriers that may keep some residents from using the library, but wanted fiscal certainty and system coordination.
Discussion details and next steps - Trustees asked staff for additional local data disaggregated by item type (children’s vs. adult materials) and for follow-up on how many fines come from reciprocal borrowing vs. local patrons. Jennifer confirmed the accounting shows ecommerce fines are generally Franklin patrons, paid online, and that quarterly transfers from the central system cover some reciprocal amounts. - Several trustees recommended inviting Pete (Tosa director) or another system representative to present metrics and longer-term results from libraries that went fine-free. The board agreed to invite Pete and asked staff to circulate the articles Chris provided. - No formal policy change or vote was taken; board members said they would not rush to eliminate fines without more fiscal detail and discussion with city finance staff because the 2025 budget assumes fine revenue.
Ending: The board kept the item on the agenda for follow-up, requested additional data and an external presentation, and agreed not to implement a change before reviewing the budget implications and hearing from peer library staff.
