 TITLE: Do Library Fines Affect Your Credit Score? CONTENT: How to Resolve Library Fines\n----------------------------\nStill, it's unlikely (though not impossible) that your unpaid library fines will make it to this point. Libraries themselves are trying to become less punitive as more readers turn to online information or digital booksellers like Amazon instead of risking fines, collections and the humiliation of running afoul of the system. The New York Times reports that libraries in Philadelphia, Los Angeles, San Diego, Chicago and Denver have adopted no-fee or amnesty policies in recent years. And at least one collection agency for libraries has moved to a \"gentle nudge\" policy that does not involve reporting the late fees to credit bureaus.\nOf course, every library system is different. If you've received a notice of overdue fines or you suspect you have unpaid fees, contact your local library. They may have an amnesty program in place or may be willing to accept an alternative arrangement, such as replacing a lost book with a gently used copy instead of a new one. If you're dreading the thought of runaway fees compounding year over year, take heart. Many library systems cap your fees at an affordable flat dollar amount or the price of the book itself.\nWhether or not you face a credit consequence for late fees or lost books, you may want to consider wiping out your debt regardless. Reminder notices, collections and old-fashioned guilt trips aren't fun to live with, and coming clean may lighten your conscience. Contributing to the health of your local public library by paying fines or replacing lost books is a good deed of citizenship as well. END