Lambton County Library eliminates overdue fines from children's print materials

Wyoming, ON - Lambton County Library has eliminated overdue fines on children's print material effective March 1, 2020 in an effort to promote childhood literacy and facilitate access to children's books.

The recommendation for change was approved by Lambton County Council's standing committee in November and by full Council in January. While overdue fines will no longer accumulate effective March 1 on children's print materials, replacement fees for library materials that are not returned to the library will continue to be charged. Any late fees accumulated before March 1, 2020 will still be required to be paid.

"Lambton County Library serves an important role in ensuring children have access to library materials at an early age so that they can build early literacy skills that will benefit them for life," says Warden Bill Weber. "The elimination of overdue fines for children's print materials helps to remove a financial barrier so children can continue accessing important community resources that contribute to early learning."

Library cardholders can typically borrow an item for a three-week period and can renew material up to three times, provided another library patron has not placed a hold on the item. All library material that is not renewed or returned after three weeks following the due date is considered lost and cardholders will be charged a replacement fee.

"The library does appreciate the prompt return of all library materials so that other cardholders can have timely access to materials without experiencing long wait times," says Darlene Coke, Manager, Library Services. "Children's materials will still have due dates and cardholders will still receive notices to return the items; however, the financial penalty will simply be removed unless the materials are not returned."

Lambton County Library serves residents through 25 libraries across Lambton County. Library membership is free to anyone who lives, owns property, works or attends school in Lambton County. Cardholders can borrow a variety of materials with their library card, including books, DVDs and snowshoes. Cardholders can also access thousands of electronic books, music, movies and audiobooks available with a variety of mobile apps. For more information about Lambton County Library, visit www.lclibrary.ca.
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Please contact:
Darlene Coke Bill Weber Manager, Library Services Warden Cultural Services Division County of Lambton County of Lambton 519-649-6885 519-845-3324 ext. 5238 bill.weber@county-lambton.on.ca darlene.coke@county-lambton.on.ca