Mead Library is Now Fine Free

Mead Public Library is closing the book on overdue fines.

As of Sept. 1, 2021, Mead cardholders are no longer being charged fees for late items, including items requested or checked out from other libraries.

The new policy applies to late fees only. Cardholders will still be billed for lost and damaged items.

By making the change, Mead will be joining a growing list of libraries throughout Wisconsin and the nation that have eliminated late fines.

Studies show that late fees do not impact return rates. Instead, fines remove access from people who benefit the most from library services, such as low-income residents and seniors on fixed incomes.

“Ensuring access for all is essential to our mission, so why continue a model that ultimately turns away our most vulnerable community members?” said Library Director Garrett Erickson.

The library is currently in the process of eliminating late fines retroactively for all Mead cardholders, regardless of where the late items were from.

For more information, visit www.meadpl.org or call the library at 920-459-3400