Winnipeg libraries want to eliminate overdue fees for kids and young adults

Winnipeg libraries want to eliminate fines for kids and young adults to improve literacy.

The city is considering a plan to get rid of fees for overdue children's and young adult library books and other materials.

In a new report to city council's protection, community services and parks committee, Winnipeg'slibrary branch advises elected officials to approve the elimination of library fines for kids and young adults as a means of improving literacy.

"Early literacy skills are fundamental for children and young adults to succeed in today's world, and the public library plays an important role in the development of those skills. The public library offers a wealth of materials, programs and services that meet the literacy and educational needs of children and young adults," library services manager Rick Walker writes in the report, published Thursday morning.

"Library staff's experience shows that families most in need of this support, living in higher needs neighbourhoods, may not be able to benefit from the library because of outstanding overdue fines and an associated inability to pay."

The elimination of these fees would cost the city $102,000 a year, the report says.

The protection, community services and parks committee will consider the recommendation on Monday. It will also require approval from executive policy committee and council as a whole.