Starting July 2, Santa Monica Public Library stopped charging overdue fines to youth cardholders (0-18 years) when they return materials late.
The Fine Free program will allow youth who are Santa Monica Public Library cardholders to have increased access and use of the Library and its materials at any of its locations. Eliminating overdue fines for our young patrons will help remove barriers to their use of the Library, according to the City.
Patty Wong, Director of Library Services says “The Fine Free program will help our youth and teen readers keep their accounts automatically clear of fines from now on. If you haven’t come to the library in a while, we want you back. If you are new to Santa Monica, come join us.”
This change applies to overdue fines only. Charges related to lost or damaged materials will continue to apply. The fine free status applies solely to Santa Monica Library cards issued to patrons ages 0-18. This does not apply to youth or teen materials checked out to an adult library card.
