Photo: Moki8 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
The Driftwood Public Library in Lincoln City stopped charging late fines on overdue items in 2018, joining a national shift among public libraries. The idea was simple: fines were keeping some people, especially children and lower-income families, from using the library at all.
Why libraries dropped fines
Library groups had found that small daily fines brought in little money compared with the cost of collecting them, and that blocked cards hit the people who most needed free access to books, computers and internet. Libraries that went fine-free often reported returning borrowers and recovered materials. The American Library Association adopted a resolution in 2019 calling fines a form of social inequity.
How it works
Fine-free does not mean items never have to come back. Borrowers still get due dates and reminders. If an item is kept long past its due date, it is generally treated as lost and the borrower is billed for replacement; the charge is typically removed when the item is returned. Damage charges can still apply. Policies differ by library, so check the details at the circulation desk.
A shared catalog
Libraries in Lincoln County share a catalog, so a card from one can be used to request items held at others. Driftwood also offers public computers, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms and programs for children and adults. Its website lists current hours and events.
For more on how city and county services are organized, see our guide to Lincoln County government.
Marnie Holcomb is the editor and publisher of Oregon Coast Daily News and covers Lincoln County government and community life.
