LEXINGTON, Ky. — All fines and fees on Lexington Public Library cardholder accounts will be removed effective immediately, including those which were previously blocked for unpaid fines.

The Lexington Public Library made the announcement today, saying the Library's resources are especially important for those facing financial hardship right now.

“We know that many in our community are facing unemployment and other financial difficulties as a result of the global pandemic, and we know that we have resources to help.  We don’t want fines to be a barrier for those who need our services the most,” said executive director Heather Dieffenbach.   

All six libraries are offering curbside service while the Northside Branch is open for in-person browsing, computer use and fax/scan service. The Library is finding other ways to adapt to the pandemic, including a virtual Book-A-Librarian service where customers can schedule an online appointment for one-on-one time with a librarian for a number of needs. Other virtual services accessible through the Library's website include Lynda.com online classes, Mango foreign language app and eBooks/eAudiobooks through the Libby platform, all of which are free to use with a valid Library card.

Lexington Public Library isn't the first to wave fines and fees recently, in fact, the Library is joining more than 100 major library ststem in North America which have done the same.

“Our community deserves equitable and accessible service for all, especially during a time of global economic uncertainty, where we know public libraries have the ability to help our communities recover and heal,” said Dieffenbach.  “We are a community resource, and we’re here to help."