Haldimand County Public Library adopts Fine-Free Policy

In an effort to remove barriers to library use, Haldimand County Public Library has adopted a fine-free policy. Overdue fines are no longer applied to most library materials when returned late, and pre-existing overdue charges on member accounts have been waived. This new policy invites everyone to come visit the library with a clean slate and the opportunity to enjoy services without fear of monetary penalty.

All residents of Haldimand County Public Library are encouraged to get a library card, which provides access to hundreds of thousands of books, DVDs, digital downloads (eBooks, audiobooks, music etc.), and much more, from six welcoming locations and www.haldimandlibrary.ca. Haldimand County residents can apply for your free library card in-person or online. All that is required is proof of address. 

There are a few types of library materials that continue to incur overdue fines due to the high cost of their replacement or ownership by other organizations, such as video equipment, park passes and interlibrary loans.

Under the new Fine-Free Policy, loan periods on borrowed material remain the same (e.g. 3 weeks for a book, 1 week for a DVD). Library cardholders are still encouraged to return items by their due dates so others can enjoy them. Members who do not adhere to loan periods and whose loans have become overdue will receive a reminder call, followed by a mailed late notice and ultimately a mailed bill for replacement of any unreturned or lost materials.

For more information about Haldimand County Public Library, the fine-free policy, and the Library’s services and programs, visit www.haldimandlibrary.ca or a local library branch.