Free Library Updates Library Card and Fine Policies

By Michelle S. RSS Mon, July 15, 2013

Beginning on Tuesday, July 16, the Free Library will be implementing a variety of changes to its cardholder and fine policies. Children under 12 years old will no longer be charged late fees for overdue materials—though they will still be responsible for returning all items before checking out more. Children will also be able to check out a total of 20 items and renew their materials up to 10 times, an increase over the previous limit of three renewals. In addition to these improvements for young library-goers, the Free Library is standardizing its late fees on all adult and teen materials to 25 cents per item, per day. Adult and teen readers will also be able to enjoy the increased renewal rate of 10 times per item.

In addition, several other library card changes will also go into effect on Tuesday. All Pennsylvania residents will now be able to obtain a library card free of charge, and the fee for an out-of-state card will increase from $35 to $50. Also, veterans, members of the military, and senior citizens who do not otherwise qualify for a free card will no longer be eligible for one.

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My daughter who is now 14, said she has a 50 fine. How can we get this to a reasonable rate that she will be able to pay? Also the books , we believe , were checked out over 2 years ago when she was 12. Please advise
Erin Sowell - Philadelphia
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
After my temporary library card expires, can I renew? I use for e-books.
Anna Mae Hall - Irwi, Pennsylvania
Friday, March 3, 2017
Per the computer printout I owe $21. But most all the charges come from books returned 1 day late. I was charged $1 for each day,not 25 cents as listed on the website. How can this issue please be resolved?
Ilene dickerman - Mt. Airy
Saturday, December 16, 2017
I want to pay my overdue fine but I can't find a link ??????????? please advise.
b torode - Philadelphia
Friday, January 5, 2018
I'm very upset that my children's books all received late fees because they were taken out on my card. Could the librarIan have taken one half minute to explain this to me? She was not in the least bit busy, just standing there waiting for us to check out. My kids were standing there with me, and she had to scan my card that was on a key chain with theirs. I didn't know this was the policy. I guess maybe she is told not to let people know so the library can collect revenue???
Regina Wojtkielewicz - Welsh rd.
Monday, January 29, 2018
Hi Regina, please send an email through the following link with your issue and Free Library staff will be able to assist you http://www.questionpoint.org/crs/servlet/org.oclc.admin.BuildForm?&institution=12274&type=1&language=1
Web Admin - Philadelphia
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
I am wondering why books cannot be renewed online when one is overdue. It is very frustrating and causes the books to be further overdue
John - PHILADELPHIA
Monday, August 6, 2018
It's great that there is much more flexibility for borrowers. I found this page because I was looking into whether Philly had a program like Seattle's Fresh Start program, where people can donate to help get teens' fines paid. Is this something in place in some form or has the FLP considered this program?
Judith Dawkins - PHILADELPHIA
Friday, August 24, 2018
Book renewal
Irene choice - Philadelphia
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
i am unceratin of how much i have to pay for the charges or if i have any?
Andrew C Sultan - Philadelphia
Thursday, November 29, 2018
My books are due tomorrow. Came online to renew, but one was not renewable. Tried several times. Why? Will the late fee still be .25 daily, or will it be more?
C Henry - Philadelphia
Sunday, December 23, 2018
how can i pay book fines one line
Mary A Parham - philadelphia,pa
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
It would be helpful if you answered this question that was asked above twice already: how do you pay fines online?
Lisa DiGiacomo - Chestnut Hill
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Is it system- wide policy to close the cash drawer at checkout an hour before closing? This is what I experienced today after rushing to pay my fine. This should be noted on the website somewhere.
Lisa DiGiacomo - Chestnut Hill
Saturday, October 19, 2019
I would like to renew my library card.
Rachael Pope - Philadelphia
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
Need an update
Anna M. sampley - Philadelphia
Wednesday, March 10, 2021
What is the age minimum for getting a library card? My son is 2.5 years old.
Yvette Almaguer - PHILADELPHIA
Wednesday, November 3, 2021
How do I renew my library card? I received an email stating that it will be expiring soon. I logged into my account, but see no place to renew.
Dale Frick - Newfoundland, PA
Tuesday, March 21, 2023
My card has expired and I would like to renew.
Diane Way - New Cumberland PA
Friday, April 7, 2023
I had a free library card and the ability to borrow e-books a few years ago as an Army Veteran. I would like to know why this was rescinded. Who thought it was a good idea? And why? Excerpt: Also, veterans, members of the military, and senior citizens who do not otherwise qualify for a free card will no longer be eligible for one.
William Szkromiuk
Sunday, June 4, 2023

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