Beginning Jan. 10, the Greater Victoria Public Library will no longer charge users late fees for overdue books.
All outstanding fines will be wiped from accounts as the library moves to an overdue-fine-free model.
“The Library Board’s decision to eliminate overdue fines aligns with our commitment to reducing barriers for all library users,” says Andrew Appleton, GVPL Board Chair in a statement released to CHEK News.
“Eliminating overdue fines removes a significant barrier and increases access to the critical library services people count on.”
The Victoria Greater Public Library joins the Vancouver Island Regional Library in eliminating overdue fees. The Vancouver Island Regional Library eliminated overdue fees at the beginning of 2023.
Library officials say the reasoning behind the switch is to provide a more financially inclusive environment and encourage more community members to utilize libraries.
“We trust our community to care for the library’s collection and to return items when they are due. The decision to go fine free is about fostering a culture of inclusivity,” says GVPL CEO Maureen Sawa.
“Becoming a fine-free library will help ensure everyone in our community has equal access to the resources they need.”
The GVPL will be welcoming donations to help offset costs. For more information, visit the GVPL’s Canada Helps donation page.
Cole Sorenson
