Richland Library’s big change will make patrons happy and keep children coming
The Richland Public Library will no longer charge fines for overdue books, videos and other library material.
It follows a decision by the Mid-Columbia Libraries, which eliminated fines as of the first of 2020 at its libraries serving the Tri-Cities — except Richland, which has its own city library — and other nearby areas.
The change in Richland policy also authorizes outstanding fines for overdue items to be waived.
The change was approved by both the library board and the Richland City Council.
The Richland library does not rely on revenue generated from overdue fines, said, Christopher Nulph, library manager.
Fines can keep some residents, especially children and families, from using the library, he said.
“We want to avoid reducing access to learning opportunities during periods of critical growth and development,” Nulph said.
In other Richland Public Library news, the library now makes free passes to The Reach Museum in Richland available for checkout.
The new service has been popular and there are currently 40 holds pending for the 10 passes available, with each pass offering free admission for up to 2 adults and four children ages 5 and older.
This story was originally published May 19, 2022 at 5:00 AM.