The Getaway leads the return home to libraries
23 July 2025
Following the popular Fine Free Week during the July school holidays, City libraries announced that more than R1,3 million worth of library items were returned.
The City’s Libraries and Information Service recently held another Fine Free Week for patrons up to the age of 17 during the week of Monday, 30 June – Saturday, 5 July 2025 at every public library. Young patrons had the opportunity to return the items to any library, regardless of where they were borrowed.
‘Thank you to all our residents who took advantage of the Fine Free Week to return items so that they can be available for others to enjoy. The number of items returned is an excellent example of how popular the Fine Free Weeks are and how popular our libraries are for residents young and old. We’re committed to keeping these spaces vibrant, welcoming and accessible for all to use,' said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
During Fine Free Week, 10 712 items were returned to the value of R1 377 442,85. Items included overdue children’s and young adult books, comics, audiobooks, magazines, DVDs and CDs.
Those patrons who returned items can start the new term with a new borrowing chapter.
Below is a list of the top 10 books returned:
| Title of Book | Books Returned |
| The getaway - Jeff Kinney | 11 |
| The meltdown - Jeff Kinney | 8 |
| The third wheel - Jeff Kinney | 8 |
| The deep end - Jeff Kinney | 7 |
| The long haul - Jeff Kinney | 7 |
| Wrecking ball - Jeff Kinney | 7 |
| Diper överlöde - Jeff Kinney | 6 |
| Dog Man - Dav Pilkey | 6 |
| Hallo, Tippie! - Jose Palmer | 6 |
| Harry Potter and the philosopher's stone - J. K. Rowling | 6 |
Residents are invited to join one of the 102 libraries across the metropole.
To join a library, visit your nearest facility today. Once registered, you’ll be able to check out your first batch of books on the same day.
For more details on how to become a member visit: https://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Register/Information-and-learning/Register-for-a-City-library-membership
Photo Caption: The City’s Central Library End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
