From 1 April 2022 adults will no longer need to pay fines if they return their books later than the due date. If books are never returned, lost book charges will still apply.
The decision is part of a bid to encourage more people to use their local libraries, borrow books and enjoy reading – both books and e-books.
Children and over sixties already do not pay fines on overdue books. By abolishing fines the council aim to reduce inequalities that exist around libraries and eliminate the worry about being fined.
This decision will make Manchester’s libraries more accessible to everyone. Library fines for adults have also been abolished in some neighbouring authorities in recent years, to encourage more adults to join the library and enjoy reading.
Manchester’s libraries aim to be as inclusive and accessible as possible. The abandonment of fines is one way that the Council is investing in local communities and ensuring that Manchester’s libraries are better suited to reach people from all backgrounds.
The initiative is part of the council’s larger investment into libraries. Manchester City Council want to ensure that libraries are modern and cater for Manchester’s growing communities.
Recent improvements works have taken place at Withington Library, Central Library and Hulme High Street Library to help the modernisation of Manchester’s Libraries. Didsbury Library, Chorlton Library, Longsight Library and Newton Heath Library are soon to be renovated as well.
Join the library for free now or visit our website for more information.
“We want our libraries to be as inclusive and accessible as possible and I am delighted that we will be abolishing fines very soon. I believe that books and the joys of reading should not be tied by financial constraints. Everyone, regardless of economic status, should be able to join the library and enjoy reading and all that libraries offer.
“I hope even more people will be encouraged to borrow books from their local libraries.”
Councillor Rabnawaz Akbar, Executive Member of Libraries