Glendale Library, Arts & Culture is Now Fine Free

Public libraries have long been some of the best examples of democratic institutions. They stand for equal access to information for all, and have helped support communities across the world.  However, one remaining element that has created a barrier to library access has been the practice of charging overdue fines, two words that have long scared many people away from using their local library. That is now changing in Glendale.

Last year overdue fines for children’s and teen materials were eliminated. To complete this progressive move, as of July 2020, Glendale Library, Arts & Culture is eliminating fines for overdue adult materials as well. This important action acknowledges the effects of late fees that disproportionately impact low-income residents from enjoying continuous access to much needed public library services. The American Library Association passed a resolution in 2019 which recognized fines as "a form of social inequity." They called on libraries nationwide to find ways to eliminate fines. Eliminating library fees creates a more welcoming environment and greater accessibility  to the library--not only for existing users returning to the library to borrow materials, but also for new users signing up for a library card. Over 180 library systems across the country have taken this step, and we are proud to say Glendale Libraries are now fine free.

For more information, contact Library staff by phone at 818-548-2021 or by email at LibraryInfo@glendaleca.gov.