Berkshire Athenaeum Now a Fine-free Library
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield’s public library, has announced it is now a fine-free library. Patrons returning library materials late will not be assessed daily charges.
"Our Trustees have given time, thoughtful discussion, and careful analysis to taking this impactful step," said Athenaeum Library Director Alex Reczkowski.
According to the American Library Association, many libraries find that going fine-free helps erase barriers to library use. Research shows that fines are not effective in ensuring library materials are returned.
CWMARS, the consortium of 157 central and western Massachusetts libraries to which the Berkshire Athenaeum belongs, includes 126 libraries that are now completely fine free. In October 2021, the New York Public Library joined a growing number of libraries across the nation going "fine free" and explained that this policy shift was intended to offer a fresh start.
Circulation Department Supervisor Catherine Congelosi observes that the library’s semi-annual fine amnesty events proved that library patrons will return overdue library materials if they can do so without penalty.
"We’ve had fine amnesty in April and November for over 15 years and the response has consistently been wonderful. In retrospect those seem to have served as a test case for removing late fees," she said.
Reczkowski further explained that overdue fine removal is retroactive.
"Library staff are aware there are Pittsfielders who have stopped visiting the library out of fear they owe fines or may accrue fines if they return something a day or two late. Fines were counter to the overall purpose and vision of our library. We want this clean slate to be a new beginning and a gesture of welcome to those who haven’t visited us in some time."
The library continues to require that those who return damaged items or fail to return items pay the cost of repair or replacement. For questions about borrowing from the Berkshire Athenaeum, please call 413-499-9480 during library hours or email info@pittsfieldlibrary.org.
For more information, please visit pittsfieldlibrary.org
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