The Pittsford Community Library (PCL) is a strong advocate for literacy and education and is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to materials for children and teens. PCL strives to create positive library experiences and believes that access for our youngest patrons encourages a lifelong interest in reading and support of public libraries.
The Pittsford Community Library Board of Trustees and Town of Pittsford support a two-year pilot project that allows PCL’s children’s and teen materials to be available for checkout without overdue fines. The pilot will be effective starting March 17, 2022. Throughout the pilot, the impact on the library’s revenue, collections, service statistics, and patron experiences will be assessed to ensure a sustainable path forward.
FAQs
When will materials in PCL’s children’s and teen collections be fine free?
Materials in the children’s and teen collections that are owned by PCL and returned on or after March 17, 2022 will not be charged overdue fines throughout the pilot project.
Will the materials I check out still have a due date?
The checkout process for children’s and teen materials will not change. Items in these collections will still be issued due dates and allowed renewals when available. You will still receive notices for renewal options and overdue items.
What materials will not accrue overdue fines?
All items in PCL's children’s and teen collections, including special collections such as board games and story time kits.
What materials will accrue overdue fines?
All items in PCL’s adult and general interest collections, including video games, will continue to accrue overdue fines.
Items from other Monroe County Library System (MCLS) libraries that charge overdue fines on children’s, teen, and adult materials will still accrue overdue fines.
Will I be billed for materials that are not returned?
Yes, children’s and teen items must be returned for you to not be charged for their replacement. You will be billed replacement costs for overdue items that are not returned after 42 days.
How will this impact when I get holds?
Because you receive the first available copy of an item to fill your hold request, you might receive an item from an MCLS library that charges overdue fines. Currently, the Rochester Public Library and branches, Fairport Public Library, Parma Public Library, and Irondequoit Public Library do not charge overdue fines on children’s and teen materials.
