Tempe Public Library Has Eliminated Late Fines

TEMPE, AZ —Monday is Valentine's Day, and it's also the day Tempe Public Library officially went fine free, eliminating financial penalties for those who return materials late.

However, the library has maintained its current policy for unreturned items, which charges library users the cost of a replacement copy of any materials not returned within 14 days after the due date.

The decision to eliminate fines is part of a national trend. In January of 2019, the National Library Association passed a resolution recognizing fines as "a form of social inequity" and calling on libraries nationwide to find a way to eliminate their fines.

Studies have shown that historically marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by library fines, despite being more reliant on library materials. The pandemic also has created even more financial hardships across society.

Representatives from Tempe Public Library have said they don't believe a person's inability to pay a fine should prevent them from taking advantage of the library, which is a hub of all information.

"Tempe Public Library is committed to providing free and equitable access to resources for all residents and community members," said Tempe Public Library Deputy Director Jessica Jupitus. "Our fine-free policy makes that access possible, ensuring that library materials are always available to those who need them most."

According to Tempe Public Library, data from across the country shows that even after the elimination of late fees, libraries are more likely to see a higher number of materials returned. Plus, there has been an increase in the number of library card holders.

"These benefits far outweigh any revenue loss previously collected from library fines," Tempe Public Library said in a statement.

Also on Monday, Tempe Public Library increased its loan limit to 30 items, regardless of media type. This new policy includes DVDs and CDs, which library users previously only were allowed to check out 10 at a time.