How does it work?
From 1 July, once a book has been on loan for 63 days without being renewed or returned (42 days overdue) we’ll add the cover price of the book to your library account.
First, we’ll let you know by email when your book is nearly due, also sending an email before we add the cost to your account. If the book is returned, we will waive the charge.
This only affects adult library accounts, not child accounts or children’s books borrowed by adults.
Why are we charging?
Charging for long-term overdue books is standard public library practice in the UK, and is the case at other fine-free library services.
After removing fines, the number of long-term overdue books have increased in Leeds. As a result, you have fewer books to borrow and you are waiting longer for reservations.
We have already started blocking accounts with overdue items from borrowing any more books. Adding a charge means that we are also be taking action to recover the cost of long-term overdue items.
How to avoid going overdue:
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Make sure that your email address is up to date on your library account (it isn’t currently possible for us to send a letter or text).
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If you’re not online, get a printed receipt from our RFID machine or a date stamp in the book to remind you of the return date.