A new fine-free policy for Salem Public Library takes effect on July 1. The proposal was supported by Salem City Council on Monday, June 13. What does this mean? Many people now unable to use their library cards because of fines owed will be able to use the library again!
- Overdue fines will no longer be charged for books and other items owned by Salem Public Library.
- Past overdue fines on library accounts for Salem Public Library items will be eliminated.
- Fees will continue to be charged for the full replacement cost for books and other items that are not returned or are too damaged to be used.
- Past fees for lost or damaged items will remain on library accounts.
There is more good news! The library is also offering a way to help pay off fees for lost and damaged items. Food for Fees, a new take on the annual Food for Fines tradition, will be available for one week from July 1-8. During that week, each $1 donated to support Marion-Polk Food Share will equal $5 in fee forgiveness at Salem Public Library. Donations will be made through the Food for Fees portal at the Marion-Polk Food Share website. Watch for complete details starting the week of June 27.
Please note that the fine-free decision relates only to books and other items owned by Salem Public Library. Salem Public Library is one of 18 members of the Chemeketa Cooperative Regional Library Service (CCRLS). Each of those libraries is independently funded and governed, so each library makes independent decisions about fines on items owned by that library.
Salem Public Library patrons who see fines on their accounts related to other CCRLS libraries are encouraged to contact Salem Public Library staff at library@cityofsalem.net or 503-588-6315.
