Downers Grove Public Library Eliminates Late Fines For Good

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — The Downers Grove Public Library (DGPL) has announced that it will no longer be charging overdue fines for materials. The library's board of directors voted on July 22 to make the change permanent to "increase access and equity among patrons," according to a press release from DGPL.

DGPL Director Julie Milavec said in a statement, "Library collections are meant to be used. We want the books, movies, and music to circulate to our community members. We want people to enjoy them without stress and the fear of fines."

Library patrons are still expected to return items on time, but without the consequence of overdue item fines. Library cards will be blocked once an item is 14 days overdue. The block will be lifted automatically once the items are returned.

Patrons will be billed for items that are lost, damaged or not returned after more than 42 days.

Library officials said individuals most impacted by fines are also those who rely on library access the most. They added that overdue fines accounted for about 1 percent of the library's operating revenue.