Your Library Is Now Fine-Free 

Horicon Public Library Fine-Free

The Horicon Public Library Board announces the Library is now totally fine-free.  In response to the COVID-19 outbreak and the resulting economic stress placed on our community, the Library has advanced its timeline towards making the Library equitably accessible for all our patrons.  Effective Monday, May 11, 2020, the Library will no longer charge fines on materials checked out of the Library. This also applies to items borrowed from our Monarch member libraries as well.

The Horicon Public Library Board feels it is their duty and responsibility to encourage and foster a love of reading and learning.  As addressed in the American Library Association Resolution 2018-2019 ALA CD# 38, charging overdue fines is in direct conflict with that goal, discouraging use of the Library.

As part of our implementation, we are also waiving all past overdue fines on materials charged at HPL.  Charges for lost or damaged items and ancillary fees (copies, faxes, etc.) will still apply.

A few things to know:

  • You still need to return borrowed materials in good condition.
  • Our overdue notice procedure will remain the same.  Materials kept 28 days (4 weeks) past their due date or are damaged will be charged to your account.
  • Horicon Public Library materials checked out or renewed at other Monarch member libraries are subject to the loaning/renewing Library’s fines policies.

The Library is for our whole community, and we hope this change allows all community members to freely take advantage of all we have to offer for your educational, entertainment, and inspirational needs.

  1. Do I still have to pay a fine that was on my account prior to HPL going fine-free?
  2. Fines have been waived, so why does my account still have a balance?
  3. I use more than one Monarch member library. How will that work?
  4. How will the library get people to return borrowed materials?
  5. How is the library budget affected by the loss of fine income?
  6. I've always thought of paying my fine as a donation to the library. Can I still donate?
  7. What's the difference between a fine and a fee?
View All