Guilderland Public Library joins growing list of fine-free libraries

Guilderland Public Library is going fine-free.

The library says it’s embracing a growing trend across the country.

Here in the Capital Region, 22 of the 29 Upper Hudson Library System libraries have switched to a fine-free status.

All libraries are now offering auto-renewals for checked-out items.

The library director says he hopes that eliminating fines will encourage people to bring overdue materials back and increase library usage.

Patrons will still be billed for the replacement cost of unreturned items.