Public library users receive a welcome surprise as penalty charges for overdue books are ended.
People returning library books to one of Ireland's 330 public libraries are delighted to learn that library fines for overdue items are a thing of the past.
I think it's wonderful news, I think it’s great news.
The abolition of library fines is part of a wider government strategy aimed at creating barrier free access to public libraries and increasing the number of active members from 16% to 30% by 2022.
Even in the digital age, Kerry County Librarian Tommy O'Connor is aware that reading is hugely popular so,
We would hate to think that, especially maybe families, would not use libraries because they’ve a fine outstanding.
Library assistant Mairead Costelloe displays a copy of 'Ruby of a Thousand Dreams’, an adventure romance by Roland Daniel. The book was withdrawn from the Carnegie Library in Tralee on 30th November 1949 and was returned on the 30th November 2016. The €1,200 fine was waived as part of an amnesty.
He got away with paying nothing and we got our book back.
In 2017 over €800,000 in library fines was collected. A Kerry library user is optimistic books will be returned in the absence of fines,
I hope people are honest enough to bring the books back, yes I think they will.
Just in case a deterrent is required, it will be possible to block membership until overdue books are returned.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 2 January 2019. The reporter is Seán Mac an tSíthigh.
