“Overdue book? You might be in luck, as Hamilton Public Library is waiving all fines and fees racked up by library goers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fines accumulated from March 15, 2020 to December 31, 2021 will be waived.

The library is also permanently eliminating fines and fees on materials for children and teens.

The approach, the library said, will ensure people can access resources “without fear of fines.” They say it also supports the community through the pandemic and recovery period.

In a media release, chief librarian and CEO Paul Takala said the idea is to give everyone a “fresh start” and encouraged people to “pay-it-forward to help others.” The library also launched a fund to increase kids’ access to learning resources.

The library said the community and financial impacts of the changes over the next 18 months will be reported to the board in the fourth quarter of 2021.”