BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) – The Butte County Library is proud to announce two transformative programs designed to re-engage our community with the Butte County Library. September 2025 will be recognized as Library Fine Amnesty Month, inviting patrons to return overdue materials without any fines. Alongside this initiative, a one-year fine-free library pilot program will begin.

Library fines and fees have traditionally served to ensure the timely return of materials and assist in replacing unreturned items. However, the costs for replacing lost materials far surpass the revenue generated from these fines, allowing us to replace only 10 percent of unreturned items. In light of this, the Butte County Library is excited to embrace new strategies that focus on recovering overdue materials and re-engaging community members with blocked accounts. Success stories from similar initiatives highlight the remarkable returns of overdue and missing items, showcasing the positive impact of such community-focused programs.

It's important to note that fines will not be removed automatically from patron’s accounts during September’s Fine Amnesty Month. To take advantage of this opportunity, residents must contact the library directly at 530-552-5652 or speak to staff at their local branch. Patrons can return overdue items without penalties and clear any outstanding fines from their account. Staff is available to assist with the process.

The one-year fine-free pilot program began Sept. 1. As part of the program, daily fines will no longer accrue for items returned past their due date. If items are not returned 30 days past their due date, a lost fee will be posted to their account. Once patrons return the items, the fees will be removed. This only applies to fines and fees generated after Sept. 1. Patrons will still be responsible for any fines and fees incurred before Sept. 1, that were not cleared during Amnesty Month.

Let’s celebrate the transformative power of literature and learning together. We invite the entire Butte County community to engage with the library, explore our enriching programs, and rediscover the joy of reading.

Stay up to date with the fine-free pilot program and Library Fine Amnesty Month at http://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library or follow us on social media.