Fine Free FAQ
FINE FREE Frequently Asked Questions
Will this impact wait times for popular items or make my hold times longer?
We will continue to encourage and promote on-time returns with email reminders and notifications. Libraries that have eliminated overdue fines report that items were returned at similar rates, or return rates actually increased after they changed their policy—which means, eliminating late fines should not adversely impact your wait time. If material is more than 21 days overdue a patron’s card will be blocked until the overdue item is returned.
Does “Fine Free” mean I will never be charged by the library ever again?
Daily overdue/late fines for most items are being eliminated; the exception being Mobile Hotspots, Chromebooks and Curiosity Kits. There will still be charges for any lost or damaged materials.
What about old overdue fines?
All existing overdue fines owed to Walled Lake City Library will be removed onJanuary 1, 2024. This does not apply to fines from other libraries or charges for lost or damaged items.
My card is still blocked. Why can’t I use it?
There are many reasons why your card may be showing as blocked. The most common reasons include you have fees for lost items, your card was reported lost, or your card has expired. Contact us and we will see how we can help you.
Will this affect library services or increase taxes?
No. Overdue fines account for less than one percent of our budget.
What if I lose or damage an item?
You will be charged the replacement cost and a processing fee.
What if I return an item after it was billed as lost?
We will not charge you any late fines if you return an eligible item that was designated as lost.
Why not also waive lost item fees?
The Library’s collection - the books, movies, and other materials - is at the core of our services, and is a substantial investment of taxpayer funds. In order to be good stewards of these funds, it is important that we enforce compensation for lost, damaged, or stolen items.
What if a Walled Lake Library cardholder checks out materials at another library?
If you use your library card at a neighboring library, Walled Lake Library cardholders will be charged overdue fines according to that library’s policies.
Does this mean I can keep materials longer?
No. Borrowed items still have due dates and need to be returned on time to avoid suspension of borrowing privileges. We will continue to automatically renew items up to two (2) times, if no one is waiting, and we will send notifications to your phone or email when your item is late. If you keep material 21 days past your due date, your card will be blocked until you return the overdue item(s).
Why is the library removing fines?
Overdue fines create barriers to service and often stop people from using their library. The most impacted users by overdue fees are the children and teens who use the library. By eliminating these fines, we hope to share the collection and services with more community members and encourage the .
Will I still have to pay to print and copy documents at the library?
Yes. Fees will still be charged for copying and printing. The Library no longer has use of a fax machine.