Fine Free

In 2020, the RPL Library Board of Trustees approved the elimination of overdue fines for cardholders. Other libraries across the U.S., including St. Paul Public Library, have witnessed the benefits of eliminating fines. Outcomes typically include more equitable access to library services and increased library usage. Two previous pilot programs at RPL yielded similar results.

Starting June 2020, all library accounts were wiped clean of any and all charges. Overdue fines, lost item fees, and all other fees were removed, giving all cardholders a Fresh Start.

2021 Fine Free Survey

In early 2021, RPL conducted a Fine Free Survey to measure how the Fine Free Initiative impacted community members.

Cardholders were asked about how having a Fine Free library improved their access to materials, and whether or not the elimination of overdue fines helped ease their financial stress. Click here to see the results of the Fine Free Survey.

Foundation Support for Fine Free 

Your donations to Rochester Public Library Foundation helps the library absorb costs while continuing to provide new materials and resources.