Gravette Public Library goes fine-free

GRAVETTE -- The Gravette Public Library will stop charging fines on overdue books and DVDs effective Jan. 2020.

"Sometimes customers return items late, resulting in fines on their accounts. This can create a hardship which keeps people away from the library and the programs, resources and services that it provides," said Karen Benson, library director. "The important thing is for the items to be returned so that they can be enjoyed by others."

Although patrons won't be charged a daily fine, they will still be responsible for returning items to the library or paying to replace items that have been lost or damaged. In this move toward being a fine-free library, all existing fines will be waived.

Benson encourages patrons to stop by the library and update their contact information so that they can receive computer automated due date reminders via email or text message.

Other fee schedule changes include the removal of a one-time Internet user fee for patrons who do not hold a library card, a reduction in the fee for color copies and a change in the nonresident membership structure.

The Gravette Public Library is located at 119 Main Street S.E.