Hackettstown Free Public Library to eliminate overdue fines on most materials beginning Nov. 1
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — The Hackettstown Free Public Library will eliminate overdue fines on most borrowed materials beginning Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, following donations from two local business owners.
The library announced that it will no longer charge extended-use fees for most items returned after their due dates. Previously accumulated overdue fines for materials borrowed from the Hackettstown Free Public Library will also be waived.
The change is being made possible through donations from Joseph Fisher of Man Skirt Brewing and Tom Schiano of Mama’s & Cafe Baci.
According to the library, the new policy is intended to make library services more accessible by removing financial barriers that may discourage people from borrowing materials or obtaining library cards.
The library’s Board of Trustees and staff said overdue fines can disproportionately affect low-income families, students and other individuals with limited financial resources. Library studies have found that eliminating fines can encourage more people to register for library cards, borrow materials and return to the library.
“Mama’s is a 56-year tradition in this town, and the library has been here twice as long. We are two major pillars of the community coming together for the community,” said Jerry Galante, director of the Hackettstown Free Public Library. “It’s really a testament to the love that Tom has for Hackettstown.”
In a social media post, Mama’s & Cafe Baci expressed its support for the library’s decision to eliminate most overdue fines.
“We’re honored to support the Hackettstown Free Public Library with a donation that helps eliminate overdue fines on most library items, making it easier for everyone in our community to enjoy all the library has to offer.
As a family-owned business with 56 years of tradition in Hackettstown, we believe in giving back to the town that has given us so much. We’re grateful to be part of a community that continues to come together to make a difference!,” Mama’s & Cafe Baci said in the post.
Schiano also expressed his appreciation for the library and its contributions to the community.
“We’re very excited to be a part of this. We appreciate the library so much and what this brings to our town,” Schiano said.
Some library materials will still carry overdue fines
Although most borrowed materials will become fine-free, the library said certain items will continue to be subject to overdue charges after Nov. 1.
Those exceptions include video games, Wonderbooks, Launchpads, items from the library’s “Library of Things” collection and museum passes.
The new policy applies only to materials checked out from the Hackettstown Free Public Library and does not necessarily apply to items borrowed from other libraries. Library officials emphasized that borrowed materials will still have due dates and must be returned on time. Borrowers are encouraged to be considerate of others who may be waiting to check out the same items.
Fees for lost or damaged materials will also remain in effect, regardless of whether the item is otherwise exempt from overdue fines.
Library hopes change will increase access
Galante said research into fine-free library policies has shown that removing overdue penalties can lead to increased library card registrations, borrowing and the return of materials.
“We’re the library. We pride ourselves on being a free space for everyone. This donation and the cessation of fines helps us become an even more welcoming place,” Galante stated.
Library officials said the change reflects their commitment to providing equitable access to educational resources, technology and other services while encouraging greater participation in library programs.
The new fine-free policy and waiver of previously accumulated overdue fines for eligible Hackettstown Free Public Library materials will take effect Nov. 1.
