End of Library Fines in East Lothian
Plans have been revealed to permanently end library fines for overdue books in East Lothian, describing them as "out of date".
Currently, nearly 2,000 library users have their membership suspended due to late book returns or unpaid fines.
- More than £22,000 in fines were issued to late customers in the three years before Covid.
- Only 15% of the outstanding amount was ever paid.
Research has shown that people are more likely to return their long overdue books without the threat of an overdue fine.
Officers believe that scrapping fines will encourage more books to be returned, as the current practice has the opposite effect, with customers holding on to books due to affordability concerns.
Author's summary: Library fines to be scrapped in East Lothian.