From gasoline to groceries, it seems like everything is getting more expensive. The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System found a new way to help the community save money.

Effective May 2, 2022, we are eliminating overdue fines for our customers.

“This is something we have discussed for quite some time,” said Ellen Waldman, Library Board President. “With the pandemic winding down and things returning to normal, the board felt this was the perfect time to make this policy change to thank our customers for their support.”

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library system joins over 500 public libraries nationwide in going fine-free. “We are the third library in Morris County to go fine free,” she added. Roxbury Public Library eliminated overdue fines earlier this year, and the Library of the Chathams eliminates fines starting May 1.

Overdue fines at Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System are eliminated for most items, including books, movies and audiobooks. The library will waive previously accrued fines for materials checked out at any of the system’s branches. Only some museum passes and “Library of Things” items will continue to have late fees.

“Going fine-free is a great way to give back to the community we serve,” said Melissa Kuzma, Library Director. “The goal of a public library is to provide equitable access to the residents we serve. Eliminating fines for overdue materials means more people in town have greater access to the necessary materials, resources and services we provide.” That includes daily events and programs for all ages, access to e-Books and streaming video, resources for small businesses and job seekers, personalized book recommendations, and English language learning classes. “We offer so many great services and materials, whether at the branches or online. I’m a big user of our Kanopy service,” says Kuzma. She describes it as a streaming video service that library cardholders can access from their phone, computer or smart TV.