The Coastline Library System announces that effective immediately, public libraries in Coos and Curry counties will no longer charge overdue fines for Children’s materials. Coastline Libraries are committed to increasing reading and promoting literacy in the community. The goal is to ensure that the children of the community experience greater access to library materials and services that support their growth and learning. This change increases access to books and materials for younger patrons. Library staff believe that eliminating fines on children’s materials will encourage families in the community to utilize the resources the libraries offer. According to library managers, research shows doing away with fines encourages children to check out more items and that materials are usually returned on time. Children’s materials, including books and audiobooks, checked out after December 4 will be covered by the new guidelines and will not accrue fines. This amnesty does not apply to visual media, young adult and adult materials or special collections. All items that are damaged or lost will still be charged for repair or replacement. If items are more than 90 days overdue, regular billing will occur. To address existing Children’s material fines on library accounts, guardians should contact their local Coastline Library. The Coastline system is a dual-county library network of 13 libraries in Coos and Curry counties and the Southwestern Oregon Community College. This system serves over 100,000 people on the southern Oregon coast and provides access to over 640,000 library items through a shared online catalog. Member libraries in Coos County include: Bandon Public Library; Coos Bay Public Library; Coquille Public Library; Dora Public Library; Hazel M. Lewis Public Library in Powers; Lakeside Public Library; Flora M. Laird Public Library in Myrtle Point; and North Bend Public Library. Member libraries in Curry County include: Agness Community Library; Chetco Community Public Library; Gold Beach (Curry) Public Library; Langlois Public Library; and Port Orford Public Library.
