In a major milestone, Brighton Memorial Library joins the national fine-free trend.

“It is a trend through public libraries all over, one that I'm in full support of,” children’s services manager Elissa Schaeffer said. “I'm very glad that we can say we are fine-free. Now for materials, books, movies, games, we have a lot of kits and tech that we loan that's all fine free for overdues.”

The fine-free mission went into effect at the start of the new year in a bid to break down barriers to using a library that serves the Rochester community.

“Equity fines were preventing people from coming into the library, and that's not what libraries are about,” Schaeffer said. “Libraries are an open place welcoming for everyone, and we don't want anyone to feel like they are unwelcome here.”

The library explained this change will not only help remove any financial barriers for individuals who cannot afford to pay fines but hopefully encourage patrons to return.

“Life gets in the way sometimes, but it should not be a roadblock to borrowing materials from the library and using the library,” Schaeffer said.

Patrons will still receive courtesy text and email overdue reminders and will continue to be charged item and processing fees if materials are not returned. The staff from Brighton Memorial Library hopes this will avoid financial constraints from hindering someone’s ability to engage with the library.

“I am hoping to see more families returning to Brighton Memorial Library,” Schaeffer said. “I know as a parent myself it's hard to keep track of all the books I borrow for my child and I work here. So I hope that families will see that we are going fine free and are welcoming them back.”