Midlothian removes library fines

Midlothian Council has agreed to remove library fines and hire charges for CDs and DVDs in a move that will remove barriers to access and encourage users back.

No negative impact

Other library services across the country have taken this approach and have seen an increase in borrowing, library membership and footfall with no detrimental impact on the return of other items. 

Access to information

A spokesperson for Midlothian Council said:
“Fines are a form of social inequality which negatively impact on the most disadvantaged in the community. The purpose of libraries is to provide access to information, resources and learning - not to prevent it. Fines and charges have been put on hold during the pandemic as communities have been unable to access physical services. As we move through Midlothian’s recovery route-map and as library services resume, it is felt that a permanent removal of these charges along with a fines amnesty would help to welcome communities back."

Progressive library service

"The removal of fines and hire charges will help more people discover and use their local library and ties in with the modern, progressive and fair service that we aim to provide.”

When will this come into effect?

Fines will be removed as services are reopened to communities.