Calgary 
Credit: CPL
Calgary Public Library has announced that it will be moving to a Fine Free model to help Calgarians during COVID-19.
With this transition, Calgary Public Library will join one of the 100 major libraries in North America that have transitioned to a Fine Free model.
Calgary Public Library will become Fine Free as of July 1. Until then, no fines will accrue, and all existing fines will be forgiven.
The Calgarians who wish to pay their fines can pay it forward by donating to the Calgary Public Library Foundation. Generous donors will be matching individual donations up to $25,000 until May 31. Funds raised will be directed to the Resiliency Fund at the Calgary Public Library Foundation, which will provide support for the challenges that lie ahead and serve the evolving needs of Calgarians when the Library reopens.
Calgary Public Library locations remain closed and all programs, events, and room bookings have been cancelled until August 31, 2020.
“I would like to applaud Calgary Public Library for taking this bold step to help Calgarians during a time when the cost of a library fine could determine if you can get the services and resources you need,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “Removing barriers and ensuring that all Calgarians, especially children, are not held back from benefiting from the Library is the right thing to do. But try to return your materials on time so other people can use them.”
Calgary digital services remain open and provide a wealth of resources from free movies to free workshops.
