(This story is on page 3A of today’s print and e-editions of The Monroe Evening News.)

In celebration of its 75th anniversary, the Monroe County Library System has expanded its Fine Amnesty program.

The Fine Friendly First Friday program will be extended to every day of the week with a new program called “It’s a Fine Thing to Do.” The program, which goes into effect on Jan. 2, charges $1 to library users returning overdue materials. Proceeds, up to $1,000, will go to a different local charity each month. Prior to the new program, library users could return overdue materials on the first Friday of the month for a $1.

“We need libraries more than ever in these days of pinching pennies,” said Ms. Colpaert in a press release statement. “We don’t want anyone to be afraid to use the library for fear of racking up big fines. We want to be the fine friendly place and a fine, friendly place, too.”

Other programs and events will be held throughout the year in celebration of the 75th anniversary. For more information, visit monroe.lib.mi.us.