The Dauphin County Library System (DCLS) has gone fine-free, extending a no-late-fee policy enacted at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and joining libraries across the country to end a practice that was a barrier to access.

The DCLS' primary mission is to serve the community by connecting people with the knowledge and resources they need. However, libraries have found that late fees and fines are roadblocks to those who need a library's services the most. Additionally, evidence shows that eliminating fines has increased library card adoption and usage, according to the American Library Association.

While late fees and fines are not a large part of the DCLS' budget, the DCLS hopes the community will donate to help support the new policy. When visiting any of the eight locations or http://www.dcls.org/PayitForward, supporters can help pay it forward by donating to help the DCLS remain fine-free.

The DCLS takes steps to help members avoid landing in the overdue category. Borrowers can receive five renewals on an item if there are no hold requests from other members. Also, members can return found items up to a year after the billing date to have replacement charges waived.

As part of the new fine-free policy, the DCLS has new measures to encourage responsible borrowing. If a member has more than what would have amounted to $10 in fines, he or she can no longer check out materials; borrow laptops; access Hoopla, which gives access to e-book, e-audiobook, and e-music titles; or reserve library meeting rooms. Additionally, if an item is not returned within 48 days from the due date, members will receive a bill and will be assessed a replacement fee. The account will be forwarded to a collection agency for those with unpaid balances of $45 or more.

The DCLS provides county residents with free access to a variety of materials, including books, movies, music, and magazines, along with online access, people to help with research, and programs that support personal and community growth. Getting a library card is free. To learn more, visit http://www.dcls.org.