El Paso Libraries Going ‘Fine-Free’

In a transformative move, El Paso Public Libraries have officially eliminated all overdue fines, joining a growing national movement to make libraries more accessible and equitable for all. This policy change, announced on April 29, 2025, immediately restores borrowing privileges to nearly 40,000 patrons, including many children, who had been blocked due to unpaid fines.

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Breaking Down Barriers

Historically, overdue fines have disproportionately affected low-income families and children, creating barriers to accessing essential educational and recreational resources. According to the City of El Paso, the previous policy charged patrons 15 cents per day for each overdue item, with borrowing privileges suspended once fines reached $5. This system often discouraged individuals from returning materials or using library services altogether.​

El Paso's decision aligns with a broader trend among U.S. public libraries. A 2022 Library Journal survey revealed that the percentage of libraries charging overdue fines dropped from 92% in 2017 to just 36% in 2022. Cities like Chicago have reported a 240% increase in returned materials within three weeks of implementing fine-free policies, demonstrating that eliminating fines can actually encourage the return of overdue items.

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Financial Implications

While fines previously generated about $25,000 annually for El Paso Public Libraries, the cost of staff time and resources dedicated to collecting these fines often outweighed the revenue. Library officials noted that the administrative burden of managing fines was not an efficient use of resources.

Enhancing Community Engagement

Eliminating fines is more than a financial decision; it's a commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. Library Director Norma Martinez emphasized that the goal is to "remove any barriers preventing our community from accessing valuable educational, informational, and recreational materials." By going fine-free, El Paso Public Libraries aim to encourage lifelong learning and community engagement for all residents.

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A Model for Others

El Paso joins other major Texas cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, in adopting fine-free policies. These cities have reported higher return rates and increased patron satisfaction, reinforcing the positive impact of eliminating overdue fines.​

Looking Ahead

While overdue fines have been abolished, fees for lost or damaged materials will still apply, ensuring accountability for borrowed items. Patrons are encouraged to return any overdue materials without fear of penalties and to take full advantage of the library's diverse offerings, from books and digital resources to community programs and events.​

For more information on the elimination of overdue fines or other library services, visit www.ElPasoLibrary.org.​

El Paso's move to eliminate overdue fines represents a significant step toward creating a more equitable and accessible library system, reaffirming the library's role as a cornerstone of community growth and learning.