Starting May 1st, Des Plaines Public Library is joining hundreds of libraries across the United States, and 23 other libraries in our local CCS consortium, in eliminating overdue fines!
We look forward to welcoming past users back and meeting new members of the community!
Here's what you need to know.
What does fine free mean?
Des Plaines Public Library is no longer charging fines for overdue items checked out from our library.
Do items still have due dates?
Yes! Items will still have due dates and patrons are still asked to be a good neighbor and return items to the library so other patrons can enjoy them.
What will happen if I don’t return items by the due date?
Even though you will not be charged late fees, once an item is 14 days overdue, your library account will be suspended. You will be unable to check out any more items (books, DVDs, CDs, video games, etc.) or access our digital collections (Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy) and research databases until you return the overdue item(s).
Why am I receiving a bill from the library? I thought you stopped charging fines.
We have stopped charging fines, but if an item is overdue for 45 days or more, it is considered lost. Replacement fees are still charged for lost or damaged items. Once lost items are returned or paid for, you can start using your library card again.
Why are there fines still listed in my account?
We are working as quickly as we can to remove old fines from everyone’s account. Thanks for your patience!
Why is the library no longer charging fines?
We want our entire community to be able to use our many services and resources. Overdue fines create barriers to service and often stop people from using their library. By eliminating fines, we hope to reach even more members of our community.
If there are no fines, will people still return library materials
Materials still have due dates, and patrons are still responsible to return items to the library.
Many libraries who have gone fine free have not seen a difference in when items are returned. In fact, these libraries report that most items are returned within a week of their due date.
Will my taxes go up because of this policy change?
No. Collected overdue fines made up less than 0.4% of the library’s annual revenue. We do not need to collect overdue fines to maintain a healthy budget.
I’ve always thought of paying fines as a way to donate to DPPL. How can I still support the library?
The Friends of the Library hold book sales a few times a year and also have an ongoing book sale on the 1st floor of the library. For a small annual fee, you can even become a Friend of the Library and help support the wonderful programming that we offer.
What if I have more questions?
Contact us anytime at 847-376-2788 or help@dppl.org.
