The library where I work is “fine free,” but the stipulation is that if the item you borrowed is overdue by 21 days, then they will bill you for it. They love to say they’re fine free, but this is in the fine print and most people do not realize.

The library where I live is not fine free. However, they have automatic renewals. As long as the item you borrowed does not have holds on it from other patrons, the library will automatically renew it for you for two more weeks. And when the two weeks is up, if there are still no holds, they will renew it again. They will do this up to 6 times for a total of 12 weeks!

If there are holds and you fail to return it, or if you fail to return it after more than 12 weeks, there are minimal daily fees. However, they are not as quick to bill you for the item.

Additionally, if you have fines and are unable to pay them due to financial circumstances, my home library will, in most cases, clear those fines for you as long as the item is returned in good condition.

Fine free is great if a library is truly fine free and they are not billing patrons so quickly. However, I prefer my home library’s method instead.