WATERLOO, Iowa (AP) — Public libraries in two eastern Iowa communities are joining a growing number across the nation in eliminating fines for overdue materials. The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier reports that the Waterloo and Cedar Falls libraries will eliminate the fines Jan. 1 and forgive outstanding overdue-material fines.

Cedar Falls Public Library Director Kelly Stern said fines are not the most effective way to manage borrowing and are not fair to low-income patrons. Fees for lost or damaged items will remain. Patrons with overdue items will be blocked from checking out further items until the overdue material is renewed or returned.