Boston Public Library eliminates fines for people under 18

The Boston Public Library is eliminating overdue fines for borrowers under the age of 18. The October 25 announcement came after a unanimous vote from the library’s board of trustees to eliminate fines for returning books late for youth library card holders. The policy change will also remove all pending overdue fines and offer a one-time amnesty on replacement costs. During the 2019 fiscal year, about 90% of the more than 150,000 cardholders under the age of 18 were facing fines. “We are proud to be joining the ranks of libraries across the country who are moving towards being fine-free,” BPL President David Leonard said.

Boston Globe, Oct. 28

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