"Our libraries offer far more to residents than books--they offer the path to a changed future. Their resources are available to all but we know that for some residents, the prospect of a late fee can act as a deterrence to using library services in the first place."
- Mayor Kate Gallego on September 10, 2019

On November 18, 2019, Phoenix Public Library waived all existing overdue fines and discontinued the practice of applying overdue fines to items returned late.

The principal goal of the library is to make library services and materials available to those that need it most. Becoming a fine free library helps us further attain this goal.

Phoenix will be the first of the 5 largest U.S. cities to adopt a fine free program.

What does this mean for me, the customer?

On November 18, Phoenix Public Library:
Forgave existing overdue fines
Eliminated charging overdue fines
Fees charged for lost items (Replacement Fee) has remained the same.

Timeline for a Checked Out Item:

3 days before item is due: Courtesy notice
3 days later: First overdue notice
10 days late: Second overdue notice
28 days late: Third overdue notice
51 days late: Bill issued for item replacement fee
Item returned after 50 days: Replacement fee waived