30/03/04 - Overdue library book amnesty is not fine but very dandy

Forgetful library book borrowers are being urged to sift through cupboards and look under beds for overdue tomes - without fear of being hit hard in the pocket.

For Cumbria County Council’s Library Service is having a fines amnesty from April 5th-17th. And it’s not just overdue books that can be returned - CDs, DVDs, videos and all late loaned library material can be handed in without incurring a cash penalty.

Tim Heslop, County Council Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Culture, said:

“The amnesty is being introduced in an attempt to recoup Library Service equipment. We have no idea how much is out there but we do know, from our research with customers, that taking overdue library books back strikes fear into people’s hearts.

“Amnesties such as this are a rare occurrence. The last one in Cumbria was more than five years ago and was very successful and I urge people to take advantage this time round. This is publicly-owned equipment and it is only right and proper that it should be available for everyone to access through their local library.”

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