Time is running out to have your overdue library book returned...no questions asked.
The South African Library Week, running from 17 to 23 March 2025, is offering residents a golden opportunity to celebrate the importance of libraries in their communities.
During this special week, the City’s Library and Information Service is hosting a Fine Free Week, inviting all library members to return overdue items without facing any penalties or questions.
More than 40,000 overdue library items, valued at over R4.6 million, have been reported missing from the City’s libraries, including valuable children's books and study guides.
This initiative is a chance for borrowers to return materials that are essential for the community, allowing them to be circulated again and benefit others.
"Think of this as a library amnesty week," said Francine Higham, Mayco member for Community Services and Health.
"No questions asked and no penalties applied. We simply want the more than 40,000 missing items back in circulation, where they can benefit everyone in our community."
Among the most-wanted items is Jeff Kinney’s ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ series, with 30 copies of ‘Wrecking Ball’ alone waiting to be returned.
These much-loved books, alongside other children's literature and study guides, are in high demand, especially as exams approach.
Higham emphasized that returning these materials is not just about avoiding fines, but about strengthening community resources.
"Every returned book means another child gets to experience that story, or another student can prepare properly for exams. Returning these books, CDs, DVDs, and magazines helps ensure that these valuable resources are available for others," she added.
Overdue items can be returned at any of the City’s 102 libraries across the metropole until 23 March.
The City’s library network, which comprises 102 libraries and a dedicated staff of 894 employees, continues to thrive.
As of 28 February 2025, there were 242,144 active members with valid library cards, and over 3.2 million items had been circulated from 1 July 2024 to 28 February 2025.
For those who are not yet members, it’s not too late to join!
Simply visit your nearest library, bring identification and proof of address, and sign up today. You can start borrowing books right away.
Weekend Argus