Photo: Potential shift in Gatineau library policy: literature and learning that may soon become even more accessible if the proposal to eliminate late fees is passed. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

With notes from Mary Baskin, Marie-Eve Turpin and Lily Ryan

In a significant move toward enhancing public access to library services, the Gatineau City Council is contemplating the elimination of late fees in its library system starting in 2024. This decision follows a vote by city councillors during recent budget consultations, setting a course for Gatineau to join numerous other Quebec communities and neighbouring Ottawa in scrapping late fees.

The proposal, which will be a part of the upcoming budget and is set for a decisive vote on December 5, was initiated by l’Orée-du-Parc Councillor Isabelle N. Miron. Miron, who is also the president of the commission for arts, letters, and heritage, highlighted the inefficiency of the current fee system. According to her, the cost of managing late fees is more than the revenue they generate, a claim supported by the Ontario Library Association’s finding that for every $5 inlate fees, a library spends $5.95 to collect it.

This move is expected to have a positive impact on around 30% of Gatineau’s population that uses library services. Proponents of the initiative believe that eliminating late fees would increase library access and boost its popularity. While late fees typically account for a small portion of a library’s total revenue, often just one or two per cent, they can act as a deterrent for users who might otherwise benefit from library resources.

However, it is important to note that, under the new system, while late fees would be abolished, borrowers would still be responsible for paying for books deemed lost. This ensures a balance between promoting access and maintaining responsibility for public resources.

If the council approves the budget proposal, Gatineau’s late fee elimination will come into effect in 2024, marking a significant step in making library services more accessible and user-friendly.