Appomattox library becomes ‘fine free’

The J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library announced that it is now a “fine-free library.” This decision was made in a unanimous vote by the Library Board of Trustees during their August meeting.

“We are excited to have this policy in place. This approach more clearly reflects our basic philosophy to offer our community a truly open, inclusive, service-oriented library,” said Elizabeth Gillam, library board chair.

With this decision, the Jamerson Memorial Library joins 46 other libraries across the state of Virginia in becoming fine free, many of which are in the immediate area. This change to library policy will alleviate barriers to community members who were not using library services due to the fear of incurring debt. Library staff hope that removing fines will encourage community members to use their public library and the services it provides.”

There’s more to this in the current issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Support local journalism by purchasing the issue at a local newsstand or subscribing at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to receive the print edition or view the full article in the e-edition version.