The Hershey Public Library, 701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey, recently announced that regular fines have been eliminated at the library as of Dec. 6. The library is following the practice of many libraries around the country and removing this potential barrier to library services.

Removing fines is the library's latest step to ensure that all Derry Township residents have free, equitable, and open access to library materials. Studies have shown that small fines have no impact on return rates.

This change is a part of a national movement, guided by the recommendations of the American Library Association, to increase free public access to library services. The library's board voted on Nov. 15 to eliminate late fines for Hershey Public Library items.

Going fine free does not mean that patrons will not have to bring library materials back to the library, however; items will still have due dates and materials will still need to be returned. If an item is not returned or is returned damaged, patrons will still be charged replacement costs.

For more information, visit https://bit.ly/FineFreeFAQ.