![COUNCIL: Upper Lachlan libraries remove fines for overdue items. Photo: Marta Dzedyshko COUNCIL: Upper Lachlan libraries remove fines for overdue items. Photo: Marta Dzedyshko](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/WvVm3mG9j4KCbzzsQHwsbY/7630d7cf-7d59-4450-a2ce-c3b82897096f.jpg/r0_0_2962_3949_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Upper Lachlan libraries at Gunning and Crookwell will no longer be charging late fines on overdue items.
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The libraries are the latest to join a worldwide trend to remove fines. It follows research that showed fines were not encouraging the return of books on time, and in fact, were discouraging people returning to libraries.
In September, Goulburn Library abandoned late fines similar reasons.
Upper Lachlan Shire Council, library services manager, Michaela Olde said, this would allow everyone equal access to the fantastic library services.
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"We recently stopped charging overdue fines due to Covid-19 and after the pandemic is all over we won't be bringing fines back," Ms Olde said.
"Library fines can contribute to significant financial hardship. Upper Lachlan libraries want to ensure that everyone in our community has equal opportunity to read and learn.
"If you have a library item at home that you haven't returned because of late fines, please drop it in the returns and start borrowing again, even if it's years overdue," she said.
However, fees will still apply for the replacement of lost or damaged items.