WHEREAS, fines and fees do not serve the core mission of publicly supported libraries to provide free and equal access for all people of their community;
WHEREAS, fines and fees present an economic barrier to library information, materials, services, and programs;
WHEREAS, fines and fees effectively reinforce distinctions among community members based on the ability to pay;
WHEREAS, fines and fees limit library card adoption and library usage;
WHEREAS, fines and fees create a negative impact on community and public relations;
WHEREAS, fines and fees absorb valuable staff time applying, collecting, and managing dues; and
WHEREAS, the vision of the OWWL Library System states “Everyone enjoys the freedom to read, learn, and grow through equitable access to library services.” now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the OWWL Library System, on behalf of its Board of Trustees, affirms the “Resolution on Monetary Library Fines as a Form of Social Inequity” of the American Library Association and endorsement of such resolution by New York Library Association;
RESOLVED, that the OWWL Library System implores libraries to scrutinize their practices of imposing fines and fees on library patrons;
RESOLVED, that the OWWL Library System does not promote nor provide support for programs or services that charge fees, required or suggested, to library patrons.
RESOLVED, that the OWWL Library System urges governing bodies of libraries to strengthen funding support for libraries so they are not dependent on fines and fees as a necessary source of revenue; and
RESOLVED, that the OWWL Library System encourages libraries, guided by the Core Values of Librarianship and the Library Bill of Rights, to actively move toward eliminating fines and fees and provide free and equitable library services to all people of their community.
Last updated by the OWWL Library System Board of Trustees on August 14, 2024