Eliminating barriers to access: Fines disproportionately affect low-income patrons, who often need library services the most; City data showed that the highest fine amounts were concentrated in historically impoverished neighborhoods. Recovering overdue materials increases the availability of materials for circulation and reduces material replacement costs.

Patrons had the opportunity to earn back card privileges by dropping off late materials at any SFPL location. SFPL partnered with Recovering the Classics, a collection of original book covers, on the campaign artwork. The bold and unique graphics helped inspire patrons to return overdue books, re-engage with the library and increase SFPL’s circulation materials. Ironically, among the most overdue was short story collection titled 40 Minutes Late that was 100 years past due.

"We Want You Back" welcomed back patrons and put books on shelves. More than 10,000 patrons had their fines forgiven and 5,067 patrons had their borrowing privileges restored. The program eliminated barriers to service, especially to those most in need of library access. Recovering overdue materials increased the availability of materials for circulation and reduced replacement costs. Nearly 700,000 items were returned to the Library’s collections. The value of all long overdue items exceeded $200,000.