You may not have to worry about paying a fine for an overdue book from your local Fraser Valley Regional Library.
Delta council last week endorsed a recommendation to implement a fine-free policy for FVRL libraries starting Jan. 1, 2022.
Representing more than 25 community libraries including branches in Ladner, Tsawwassen and North Delta, the FVRL temporarily stopped collecting fines when the library system closed down in March 2020 due to the pandemic.
Earlier this year, FVRL staff were requested to bring forward options for the permanent elimination of fines following discussions with member municipalities.
A report to council notes the elimination improves access for low-income families and individuals, increases borrowing and staff efficiency, while generating a feeling of goodwill. The FVRL board must still vote on approving a permanent policy.
Already in B.C., 26 libraries are all or partially fine-free, while the Vancouver Public Library is offering multiple ‘clean slate’ initiatives and seems to be moving toward fine-free as well.
The report also notes the fine-free policy would require an additional municipal member assessment increase over four years, and for Delta, that represents an approximate increase of $8,500 annually for a total of $34,200.
The FVRL has also identified some cost savings associated with fine elimination.
Over the past few years, FVRL collected approximately $300,000 annually in fine revenue, representing only about one per cent of total FVRL revenue.
The report also notes fine revenues have decreased by 40 per cent ($200,000) since 2012, largely as a result of the increasing use of e-books, which cannot incur fines as well as email reminder notifications.
FVRL has been fine free for children's materials since 2010.
Council, at its Nov. 8th meeting, also approved another increase for its share of the FVRL budget, a 2.43 per cent hike ($96,549) for 2022 to bring Delta’s cost to $4,075,793.
Five years ago, in 2016, council approved a levy increase that pushed the municipality's contribution to almost $3.5 million at the time.
