No-shame, no-blame policy brings patrons back to the shelves.

Denver Public Library is singing the praises of its move to forgive late fees a year ago. Starting in January 2019, the library decided to stop charging for overdue books in an effort to welcome more people back to its shelves.

Early last year, the library nixed its $0.20 per day overdue fee, which maxed out at a $3 maximum fee per item. 

"We know that sometimes life gets in the way of returning materials," said city librarian Michelle Jeske at the start of the program. "And we don't want people to stop coming to the library because they’re embarrassed or unable to pay. We want people using our resources, and we want items back so that others may borrow them, too."

Now, instead of the fines, any borrower who has held on to a book, for example, for more than 14 days after its due date will not be able to check other material out until the book is returned. Of course, there is still a charge for lost or damaged items.

It appears the gamble has paid off. The library reports that about a third of the people who stopped coming to the library because of fines have returned to enjoy its services thanks to the new policy. 

"A year ago, we decided to go fine-free in an effort to continue to provide access to all. Over the year, we have seen a 35 percent increase in people who once had fines, return to the library," the library shared on its Facebook page.  

More and more libraries are going fine-free in an effort to be an inclusive and welcoming resource for its community. In Colorado, Mesa County Libraries and Jefferson County Libraries have adopted similar policies starting in 2020, joining Denver and towns like Montrose on the Western Slope. 

"We love to see other libraries join in on the fun," said the Denver Public Library via Facebook. 

Does your county or city libraries forgive late fees, as well? Let us know in the comments below so we can get the word out!