FAQs

Why did we decide to go fine free?

At NPT, we want our libraries to be fully accessible and welcoming for everyone and abolishing fines on overdue books is one of the ways in which we feel we can remove the barriers that prevent people from using them.

No fines on books for children and young people under the age of 18 was successfully introduced in NPT a number of years ago. This was introduced as fines were seen to be a barrier to young people and families accessing the library - the same principle now applies to books returned late by adults.
Everyone should have access to the books, services, and materials they need to pursue their education, career, and life goals. We are here to help improve your life, not add stress or challenges.

Won’t people just keep books if they are not fined?

No. Fines can be counter-productive. People will hang on to books they know that are late in order not to have to pay fines. By removing fines people tend to return late books sooner, which means more books can be read by more borrowers.

Does this mean anyone can keep a library item forever?

No. Just like before, books can be checked out for three weeks at a time, along with Cd’s and spoken word, while DVD’s are for one week’s loan.

Just like before, if you keep library materials for too long, they become “lost” and we will still charge for lost items.

Will there still be a Charge for lost or damaged items?

Yes. We will still charge for badly damaged items. Just like before, if you accidentally tore, broke, scribbled on, or soaked an item, we may charge a fee or full replacement price for an item that is too damaged to use.

Please ask a member of library staff for advice.

So, what does this mean for you?

• If you check out or return overdue books to our library, you will no longer receive a daily late fine on overdue items.
• You are still responsible for returning your items.
• The library will send you a series of reminders to return your items.
• You can renew books by phoning your library or online.
• Items that are overdue by 6 months or more will be considered lost, unless you inform us otherwise and you will be billed for them.
• If you return the items, the charge will be cleared from your account. Again, we will be understanding as we just want our items back!

Reminder Notices

• We have updated our automatic notices to reflect fine free changes and automatic renewals.
• Notices will be sent earlier and more often to help you keep track of item due dates.
• The library will send automated messages by email, phone, or text depending on your preference.
• We advise that you login into your library account for the most current information.