Library takes break from fines

close up of books on shelfPhoto by Suzy Hazelwood on Pexels.com

The Wythe- Grayson Regional Library and Board of Trustees is happy to announce that from Feb. 28, 2021 through February 2023, overdue fines will not accrue on any materials except for WGRL equipment (such as Mobile Hotspots, e-readers or the telescope.)

The library is following the practice of many libraries around the country and removing this potential barrier to library services.

Wythe- Grayson Regional Library is committed to equity and to supporting literacy efforts in our community. Any fine can be difficult for families with different economic situations. With the additional burden of the COVID-19 pandemic, the library wants everyone in our community to feel encouraged to check out materials for themselves and their families.

What better way to celebrate 74 years of library service to the people living in Wythe and Grayson Counties, than going fine-free? Under the new trail period, patrons at Wythe-Grayson Regional Library are still encouraged to return materials on time but are no longer charged overdue fines on most items. Items borrowed through certain interlibrary loan systems will still accrue overdue fines according to the lending library. Patrons remain responsible for replacement charges for lost and damaged items. As in the past, patrons will receive 7, 14 and 21-day overdue notifications before their account is blocked and replacement costs charged to their account.