Peter White Public Library trying new pilot program

MARQUETTE — The Peter White Public Library Board of Trustees approved a start up program to go “Fine-Free” for overdue materials on Youth books and audio books this past May. The trial program officially started on Monday.

The program only includes books and audio book materials in the Children and Teen sections. Any damaged and or lost items will result in replacement fees. This trial for the program will give the Peter White Public Library time and data by which to consider the idea of becoming a fine-free public library.

This idea was started to get books into kid’s hands and to break down the barriers within the public library.

“We find that fines on library materials are, just a barrier for folks,” said, Library Director, Andrea Ingmire. “They are a barrier for adults and a barrier for children and so if we can eliminate that barrier for the children, then that’s a good start.”

This program does not include movies, CD’s and video games within the youth and teen “Fine-Free” policy.