OPL is now fine-free! 

In a major milestone, the Olathe Public Library and the Johnson County Library are no longer assessing daily fines for overdue materials.

It’s all about improving access and removing barriers that might keep the community from taking advantage of everything the Library has to offer. 

In deciding to go fine-free, the OIathe Public Library and the Johnson County Library join other regional systems including Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas, as well as Lawrence, North Kansas City, St. Joseph, Topeka, and Wichita. 

This policy change has had very positive outcomes in other libraries. It sometimes results in increased customer visits and circulation. Data show it does not result in longer wait lists or a big increase of overdue materials.  

Customers should know, however, that the Library will still charge fees for lost or damaged items. Items more than 30 days overdue will have a lost item fee assessed until the item is returned. And checkout periods have not changed; materials will still have due dates, with reminders to keep patrons on track. 

 FAQs

What does it mean to be fine-free?

Fine-free means that there won’t be late charges on Olathe Public Library and Johnson County Library-owned materials. Interlibrary Loan items will retain their three-week checkout period and are subject to the fines structure of the originating library system.  

What is the difference between fines and fees?

Fines are charged when an item is late. Fees are costs that are assessed when materials are lost or damaged. Fees will continue to be assessed when materials are not renewed or returned within 30 days of their due date, have been lost, or have been returned damaged.  

Why eliminate fines?

Research shows that fines are not effective in encouraging the return of materials, but instead fines can become a barrier to people using the library. 

Due Dates and Returns

Are there still due dates on items?

Yes, materials will have due dates and customers are expected to return or renew materials in a timely manner, as others are often eagerly waiting to enjoy those items too. The Olathe Public Library sends several due date reminders to our customers; please make sure your email address is up-to-date on your Library account so you don’t miss these important notifications.  

What happens if I have overdue books?

You will be notified if you have overdue items. If the items are not returned within 30 days of the due date, you will be charged a replacement fee and will not be able to check out more items using the self-check until the item is returned or the fee is paid. 

Replacement fees vary depending on the item. Accounts with outstanding balances above $50 for more than 30 days are charged an additional, nonrefundable $10 materials recovery fee.  

What about Interlibrary Loan (ILL) items?

Interlibrary Loan items will retain their three-week checkout period and are subject to the fines structure of the originating library system.

Please note that Interlibrary Loan items considered lost will accrue a default replacement fee of $200. If this happens, contact us at (913) 971-6854  so our Interlibrary Loan department can determine the actual replacement fee.  

Will eliminating fines stop people from returning their books?

Studies have shown that late fines are not effective and actually stop people from using or returning to the library. Libraries who have adopted fine-free policies have reported few problems and increased usage.  

Can I still renew items?

Our renewal policies will remain the same. Most items can be renewed up to 10 times, so long as no one else is waiting for them.

What about hold times? Will I have to wait longer for my item?

Fine-free libraries report similar return rates. In addition, the Olathe Public Library runs reports to let us know if we need to order additional copies of popular items.  

Don’t overdue fines generate revenue for the Library?

Fine revenue makes up less than one percent of the Library’s budget. Library services will not be impacted by this change. In addition, the good that this policy will do for the community cannot be measured.  

Payments

If I just paid off my fines, will I get a refund?

Refunds will not be given for previously paid overdue fines.  

What if I pay for a lost item and find it later?

If you have paid for a lost item and then return it within one year of the payment, you can receive a refund for the replacement fee you paid for that item.