Worcester Public Library Launches 'March Meowness' Fee Forgiveness Program

The innovative program allows patrons to clear fines with cat photos, drawing widespread participation and international attention.

The Worcester Public Library in Massachusetts is offering a fee forgiveness program for the month of March, where patrons can clear their fines by submitting photos or drawings of cats or other animals.
The initiative, dubbed 'March Meowness,' has already seen over 400 accounts cleared of fines in just the first five days, with submissions from as far as New Zealand, Australia, and Greece.
In addition to fee forgiveness, the library is hosting cat-themed events throughout March, including DIY arts and crafts, movie screenings, and visits from local animal rescue organizations.
The program was conceived by the library's 'New Users Task Force' to re-engage community members, especially those deterred by outstanding fees.
Massachusetts libraries are increasingly adopting fine-free policies, with 85 percent of the state's libraries now participating in the trend.