brooklyn public library lost my library card

The New York Public Library (NYPL) has made a bold move by eliminating fines for overdue books and materials, effective July 'year'. This decision aims to remove barriers to library access, increase reading among more New Yorkers, and promote a more equitable society. According to NYPL President Tony Marx, 'Fines – which aren’t even an effective incentive for book returns – are an obstacle to that mission, and removing them is the right thing to do.'

The Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) is part of the NYPL system and will also be fine-free, making it easier for residents to access a wide range of materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, music, movies, and more. The library's mission is to connect all people with knowledge and opportunity, and eliminating fines aligns with this goal.

Prior to the elimination of fines, NYPL patrons who accumulated $15 or more in overdue fees would have their library card blocked, preventing them from checking out additional materials. This block affected over 400,000 New Yorkers, with more than half living in high-needs communities. The 10 branches with the highest percentage of blocked cards are located in some of the city's poorest neighborhoods.

Fines can accumulate quickly, and if a patron amasses enough, their library card will be blocked. Library patrons are typically fined for holding onto books or other materials after they're due. However, library access to books, computers, and other materials is usually free – unless you forget to bring something back.

The move towards a fine-free public library reflects the values of community service and common good that libraries embody. As Indy Woodworth, a librarian in New Jersey who runs the advocacy website End Library Fines, said, 'The public library is a community service and a common good, and one that should always seek ways to increase access so that everyone can participate.'

Eliminating fines and fees aligns with the mission of libraries as community pillars that champion equitable access. Libraries are not meant to be exclusive, punishing places, but rather welcoming spaces where people can come together to learn, grow, and connect.

During the pandemic, many turned to libraries for free Wi-Fi and other services, highlighting their importance in the community. The Brooklyn Public Library lost my library card, and I'm sure I'm not alone. Many residents may have been deterred from using the library due to concerns about fines or fees. Now, with the elimination of fines, there's no reason to hesitate.

The move towards a fine-free public library is a step in the right direction towards creating a more equitable society where everyone has access to knowledge and opportunities. As Tony Marx said, 'We want to remove barriers to the city’s libraries, encourage reading among more New Yorkers and move toward 'a more equitable society'.'

In conclusion, the Brooklyn Public Library's decision to eliminate fines for overdue books and materials is a significant step towards making library access more inclusive and accessible to all. By doing so, they are living up to their mission of connecting people with knowledge and opportunity.

Brooklyn public library lost my library card