Quote:
Originally Posted by MGlitch
Removing late fees from physical books adds friction to those trying to borrow it when the book is out. Now there’s less incentive for the person who has it to return it in a timely fashion.
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Less incentive to return it in a timely fashion, but more incentive to return it in a somewhat less than timely fashion? I.e., at least the library gets the book back when the person finishes it or gets around to it, unlike the cases where the fine has racked up to the point where the person just keeps it and walks away. In addition, it lets people who may need the library most and can't afford fines to remain as patrons in good standing.
One of those situations with conflicting aims and no perfect solution. It is why libraries will occasionally have "forgiveness" periods, when fines are wiped if you'll just bring back the book.
Let's be clear: I'm not excusing those who don't return books; at the same time it's the reality and the situation can be complicated. Punitive measures may not achieve the desired or the "best" result, whatever that's perceived to be.