Our kids and teens deserve a new start.

Today, The New York Public Library joined together with Brooklyn Public Library and Queens Library to announce a fine forgiveness program that will give hundreds of thousands of students a fresh start, bringing them back to their libraries for free access to our unparalleled collections, resources, and programs.

This one-time amnesty will help eliminate a known barrier to access for many New York City families: approximately 20 percent of regular youth library cardholders have suspended borrowing privileges due to accumulated fines of more than $15.

Libraries are more important than ever. Join us in welcoming kids and teens from across the city back to our libraries and the essential free services we provide.

How Fine Forgiveness Works

As of October 19, 2017, all kids and teens under 18 have had their library fines automatically forgiven and blocks on their library cards lifted. High school students ages 18 and over can also have their fines cleared in person through November 2, 2017. All kids and teens are encouraged to return any late materials.

To celebrate fine forgiveness, libraries in all five boroughs will host special events welcoming families and children to the library and highlighting all the books, services, and programs available to anyone for free. After this one-time amnesty, fines will begin accruing again on any items due after October 19.

For more details on fine amnesty at each library system, and to find a full schedule of events in each system, visit nyclibraries.org/newstart.

This initiative is supported by The JPB Foundation.