Cumbria Libraries celebrate Return Borrowed Books Week and remind communities that they are ‘fine free’
Written by John Williamson on 07/03/2023
For Return Borrowed Books Week 2023 (5 – 11 March) Cumbria Libraries are encouraging residents to return any borrowed library books they have. No matter how long they’ve had them, they won’t be fined.
Cumbria Libraries have been ‘fine free’ for nearly two years (since April 2021) meaning anyone returning overdue library books does not receive a fine. Residents are asked to return items on or before the due date to allow others to borrow the books. Items can be renewed over the phone, online or in person. Up to six renewals per item are allowed, providing it is not reserved by another member.
For more information visit www.cumbria.gov.uk/libraries.
Cllr Deborah Earl, Cumbria County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Community Services, said:
“Libraries are for everyone, and we want to do all we can to get people to use them. Fines were designed to encourage people to return books on time, but they could put some people off borrowing books, especially families on lower incomes.
“We want to encourage residents to return library books without worrying about late fees. We don’t want anyone to be put off visiting their local library.
“Our libraries are far more than buildings full of books – they provide a wide range of free services including online resources, study spaces, warm hubs, community groups and activities. So dig out that old library book, return it fine free, and take a look at what else is on offer from your local library.”
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