There will also be no limits on items checked out, put on hold.
Frederick, Md (KM) Beginning October 1st, Frederick County Public Libraries will not charge overdue fines for children’s materials. Officials say this decision was made to make sure that all kids entering kindergarten are ready to learn.
A study says 63% of children from low income households in the county are not ready to lean when they enter kindergarten. The Library System says the more access kids have to books, the more likely they are to succeed in school.
FCPL says this elimination of fines for overdue children’s materials is part of a trend among library systems across the country, which are working to build bridges with their communities, and remove barriers for patrons by eliminating fines.
Also on October 1st, there will be no limits on how many items can be checked out, or put on hold; and patrons can renew up to ten times.
“With no fines on children’s items, no limits on checkouts or holds, and more renewals, all members of our community will be able to more easily access library resources to help them grown and learn,” says James Kelly, the Director of Frederick County Public Libraries, in a statement. “We’re excited to make a powerful impact in the community and contribute in a significant way to early literacy.”
By Kevin McManus