Queens Public Library has closed the book on late fees.
QPL joined Brooklyn Public Library and The New York Public Library to announce that it will no longer charge late fines on books and other circulating materials, eliminating a barrier to access and ensuring that all New Yorkers have free and open access to knowledge and opportunity.
“For far too long, late fines have generated fear and anxiety among those who can least afford to pay, preventing them from opening library accounts, checking out books or even coming through our doors,” Queens Public Library President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott said. “Until today, countless New Yorkers have been denied the opportunity to share in the great promise of public libraries — that anyone, no matter their circumstances, can have free access to sources of learning and ideas that will help them find success and joy in their lives.”
