Reading for Fine Forgiveness Info

Reading for Fine Forgiveness is a program that allows young people (up to the age of 18) to reduce library card fines by reading. For a penny a minute, in increments of 15 minutes, kids can read off their fines, up to $5.00 per calendar year.

Why do you offer this program?

We all return materials late sometimes...but why not pay your dues in a fun way. Reading for Fine Forgiveness helps increase your skills and decrease your fines, all at once. After all, reading is a valuable activity, and we want to pass some of that value along to you.

How do I read off my fines?
First, Read. Then, fill out a Reading for Fine Forgiveness form (available at the service desk(s) in your library) with your library card number, name, and amount read. Both you and your parent or guardian sign the form and return it to checkout. That's all there is to it.

Are there any restrictions?

Yes. You cannot read to forgive charges for a lost book, read to forgive fines if your account has been sent to the collection agency, read ahead for fines not yet accrued, or read to have fines removed from someone else's card.

Do I have to remember how much of my fines I've read off every year?

No, we'll keep track of that for you.

What if I'm not reading yet?
We count being read to in just the same way we count reading. If an older sister reads aloud to a younger brother, both kids could submit that time for fine forgiveness on their respective library cards.

Can I read stuff besides library books?
You can read anything you want. Library books. Comics. Magazines. Cereal Boxes. If you can read it (for at least 15 minutes) we will count it.