Rochester Public Library permanently ends daily overdue fines for all patrons

Rochester, New York – In a major step toward making library services more accessible and welcoming to all, the Rochester Public Library (RPL) has officially eliminated daily overdue fines on all RPL-owned materials for both children and adults. The new policy took effect on Saturday, July 1, 2023, and applies to all library locations across the city.

This permanent change builds upon a 2017 pilot program that removed fines for children’s and young adult materials. That initiative led to an increase in library use, encouraging RPL leadership to expand the fine-free policy to everyone. Library officials hope this move will continue to remove barriers that prevent people from accessing books, technology, and learning opportunities.

Overdue fines from previously borrowed RPL items are also being wiped clean, offering patrons a fresh start. Those with long-overdue materials are encouraged to return them without fear of penalty and are welcomed to borrow something new.

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“This is your invitation to return to the library, regardless of how long you have had something overdue,” said Jennifer Smathers, Associate Director of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County. “Library staff are excited to welcome you back to the library, a judgment-free, fine-free place with something for everyone. With the mayor’s support, RPL is absorbing anticipated fine revenue loss to further enable a prosperity mindset for our families and the city by eliminating barriers to literacy, technology, and other resources.”

The elimination of daily overdue fines does not mean all fees are gone. Patrons will still be responsible for replacement costs on long-overdue or lost items, as well as processing fees, damages, and costs related to missing parts. Fees for printing, copying, and other paid services will also remain in place.

The shift to a fine-free system reflects a growing national trend among public libraries. Many institutions are rethinking policies that may unintentionally discourage use—especially among low-income families who rely most heavily on public resources. By removing financial penalties, the Rochester Public Library hopes to increase engagement and foster a more welcoming environment for everyone, no matter their financial situation.

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Smathers emphasized that this is more than just a financial policy—it’s a way to encourage literacy, inclusion, and access across all communities. Library officials believe that removing fines will help break down the fear or embarrassment some patrons may feel about returning long-overdue materials.

Anyone with questions about their library account or the new fine-free policy can reach out to Central Library Circulation at 585-428-8180.

With this change, the Rochester Public Library invites all residents—whether returning patrons or newcomers—to rediscover everything the library has to offer: books, digital media, public computers, workshops, and a welcoming place to learn and grow.