The goal of all libraries should be providing and increasing access to books and other resource materials. Putting artificial barriers between students books will only do one thing; it will create an atmosphere that does not value reading.

In this post, I would like to discuss one of the issues that can be contentious. If you are a library or library system that charges fines, you might want to reconsider that policy.

I do understand that sometimes that power is not in your hands. However, if it is, this is one easy way to increase access. I had a conversation with a public library staff a few years back where the decision was made at the county level and, while they would have canceled fines that day if they could, it was not possible.

Why are fines an access issue?

In many libraries, whether public or school, the rule is that you cannot check out a new book unless you have paid all fines that are owed.

I do understand that the rule can be different for lost books because many libraries have tiny budgets and replacement can be challenging.