The Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library is excited to announce that we are now “fine free”! By eliminating overdue fines on library materials and forgoing collection of any outstanding overdue fines, the Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library joins many other libraries locally and nationwide that have gone “fine-free” to remove barriers and expand access to library services for their communities.
If you’ve been avoiding the Library because you have overdue materials, now is the perfect time to bring them back without the fear of fines! We encourage you to return any long overdue items in order to clear your account and start using library services again. All materials can be returned using the outside book drop located under the covered parking area next to the Library’s back entrance. The book drop is open from 9:00 a.m. on Monday through 6:00 p.m. on Friday.
How Does the New “Fine Free” Policy Work?
During the Library’s closure to the public due to COVID-19, due dates have been extended and no overdue fines will be assessed. The Library encourages patrons to return library materials on time to make them available to others to borrow.
Once the Library reopens, current loan periods will be reinstated and there will be an added convenience of two automatic renewals for most items. Items will be renewed automatically on the due date. However, if an item is on hold for another person, it will not be renewed and the patron will be asked to return it by the due date.
If an item is not returned, or is damaged or lost, patrons will still be held responsible. Borrowing privileges will be suspended until materials are returned or the Library is compensated for these items. Once items are returned or paid for, any fees are removed from the cardholder account and borrowing privileges are restored.
In addition, fees will still be assessed for replacement library cards, printing, and holds not picked up. Items that are obtained from other libraries through interlibrary loans may be subject to fines through the lending library.
Individuals who do not currently have a library card can get one by calling the Circulation Desk at (626) 307-1366 or completing a digital library card request here.
Library staff is available to answer questions by telephone Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can also “Text a Librarian” via the new two-way text service with Gabbie® by texting to 626-283-6062 during open hours for information about your account, questions about books or programs, or assistance with library services.
