By Olivia Condous
Melton City Libraries are going fine free from today, with no overdue book fees from July 1, to encourage more residents to enjoy local libraries.
Any outstanding overdue item fines accrued before July 1 have also been waived and no further overdue fines will be incurred.
Melton councillors voted to approve the change back in April, after reports from other local councils have shown that the permanent removal of fines have caused a greater number of books to be returned.
Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the council wanted local libraries to be welcoming and accessible for everyone and were pleased to be joining the worldwide movement of public libraries which have abolished overdue fines for good.
“Research has shown that library fines are not effective in encouraging borrowers to return items on time and can discourage people from visiting the library. This change will encourage more people to visit the library and enjoy what’s on offer.
“We’re doing what we can to help ensure that every City of Melton resident can access vital materials and fully participate in library services.”
The change is effective from July 1 2022 and will apply to all current Melton City Libraries memberships.
For more information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/Libraries
