‘Recent Fine Free Weeks have seen patrons return a myriad items, but currently there are still nearly eighty thousand items more than a day overdue including books, study guides and DVDs. These are valued at around R16 million and it means someone else is deprived of access to the item,' said the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

During National Book Week patrons will have the opportunity to return all overdue library material without any repercussions. 

Topping the list of overdue items are a range of fairy tales and some study guides.

‘I want to encourage our patrons to start dusting off the books and DVD’s they’ve been too embarrassed to return because of the time lapse. Your opportunity to take it back without a fine is next week,' said Councillor Badroodien.

In addition, lost library cards will be replaced at no cost to patrons.

It is no coincidence the week of clemency is at the same time as National Book Week.

‘National Book Week is a national campaign aimed at promoting reading and our librarians are doing their best to foster a culture of reading. Literacy and reading are at the heart of education and development. Too few children are reading and if they are hesitant to come to the library because of outstanding material, they are missing out on one of the most powerful tools in fighting poverty,’ explained Councillor Badroodien.

Of the 272 000 patrons at City libraries, 26 466 are between the ages of 13 and 18, while 79 314 are aged up to 12 years.

Unreturned items are a huge challenge for the City’s libraries, given budget constraints and their aim to ensure patrons have access to relevant, adequate and up-to-date collections.

Below is a table of some of the most popular overdue items.

‘While the loss of just one item may seem insignificant, it all adds up. That one item could be that one study guide a student needs to pass, or the one book that will propel a child into a love of reading. I want to urge patrons to return library stock so everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy of what they have to offer,’ said Councillor Badroodien.

The libraries will display posters and have special events to promote Fine Free Week. These events include visits to surrounding schools and old age homes, displays, and special story times.

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