Posted on Thursday 18th May 2023
People with overdue library books in Staffordshire are being reminded to return them before charges on late returned items are re-introduced in July.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Staffordshire libraries suspended the fees. From 1 July 2023, charges will be reintroduced but will remain at 2020 prices. The age at which these charges start to apply has been extended from 16 to 18.
Library customers are also being reminded of how they can avoid costs by renewing their books before the due date. Every library member can ask for a PIN so that they can access their library account online or via the Staffordshire Libraries: Your Library App. Alternatively, people can contact their local library directly, call the 24-hour renewal line or request a reminder email to be set up on their account.
Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member responsible for libraries at Staffordshire County Council said:
“It’s great to see the number of visits to our libraries on the rise again following the disruption and changes because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It’s lovely to have people back in using all the wonderful resources and groups in our libraries, many of which are free. Our libraries continue to be hubs in our local communities providing access to valuable services and activities.
“Where library borrowers still have items on loan from before March 2020, there is a fines amnesty throughout the month of June, so, if long-overdue books are returned, any charges will be waived. There’s also lots of things you can do to avoid any late return charges in the future so please speak to a member of staff when you’re next in your library.”
Staffordshire libraries provide free access to over one million books, numerous e-books and e-audio, as well as access to many authoritative online resources, including, the Complete Business Reference Advisor (COBRA). Free access to library computers is also available to customers while business start-up areas have useful information on setting up a business or becoming self-employed.
For more information visit Staffordshire libraries and their services.