Donate now to support fees-free library services to under-served communities in our area.

Traditional library fees and fines may not seem like a big deal: 50 cents here, a few bucks there. While it's true that for some these charges can be annoying or maybe even embarrassing, for those living at or below the poverty line, library fines are barriers to library use that can negatively impact generations.

Many of our library patrons have told us that using traditional libraries are "too expensive" and we have heard countless stories from folks across the nation from all socio-economic groups of being denied library access for decades due to lost library books from childhood, or due to unpaid late fees. This type of punitive structure negatively impacts those most in need of the important services provided by libraries.

Studies show that for children who live in communities of privilege, there are 13 books for every one child. In contrast, in communities of concentrated poverty there is only about 1 book for every 300 children. Truly free library access is a key part of working to eliminate this type of radical inequity, a disparity that is hidden in plain sight in our very own community.

Antelope Lending Library, founded in 2012, is an independent, non-profit bookmobile library working to overcome barriers and provide full and equal access to information and ideas in our community. All materials are lent on a no-fees basis, so access is always free, no matter what. With your help we'll keep serving our neighbors for many years to come.