Research shows that overdue fines are not effective at encouraging people to return materials — but they are very effective at discouraging people from using the library altogether. We don’t want the fear of a fine to stand between anyone and the free technology, literacy, and lifelong learning resources Augusta County Library offers. Life happens, and we get that.

In January 2019, the American Library Association passed a resolution asserting that overdue fines are a barrier to equitable access and encouraged libraries to eliminate them. In going fine-free, Augusta County Library joined the growing number of public libraries across the country making this change.

Due dates still apply. Every item still has a due date. Please return items on time — someone else may be waiting. You’ll receive more frequent automated reminders as due dates approach.

Fine-free applies to overdue items only. Fees for damaged or lost items will still be charged to cardholder accounts.

Account blocks. If your account reaches 10 overdue items, your library account will be blocked. You will not be able to check out additional items or access certain digital content until the overdue items are returned.