Fine Free Week, more accurately known as South African Library Week, takes place 17-24 March. As part of the celebrations, libraries throughout South Africa are looking to recover overdue books by waiving the associated penalties.
Fine Free Week celebrates the role of libraries
South African Library Week 2025 is celebrated under the theme “Libraries for Sustainable Communities”. This focus highlights the library’s role in sustainable community development.
According to the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA):
“Libraries are among the most inclusive institutions serving everyone, regardless of age, gender, socio-economic status, or background. By offering free or low-cost access to diverse resources and services, they bridge gaps in education and information”
Most popular among the celebrations is the chance for library users to return their overdue books without paying a fine. This has led to the celebration being known as “Fine Free Week”.
Over 40 000 books are overdue in Cape Town
GoodThingsGuy reports that there are 40 112 overdue books in Cape Town alone. This Fine Free Week, the total value of these books is an estimated R4.6 million!
Cape Town Mayco Member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham, told the publication that libraries just want to get their books back on the shelves. “We simply would like the more than 40,000 missing items back in circulation where they can benefit everyone in our community.”
The most-wanted overdue book in Cape Town
Amongst all the overdue books in Cape Town, there are repeat offenders. The ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ series is the most-wanted book this Fine Free Week. There are 30 copies of ‘Wrecking Ball’ (one of the series instalments) alone outstanding from libraries.
How to return your books this Fine Free Week
If you’ve got an overdue library book, Fine Free Week is your best chance to return it. Simply hand it in at the library you got it from. No questions will be asked and the book will be marked returned. Fine Free Week does not apply to arrears on your library account from books you’ve already returned.
Other activities planned for South African Library Week include upcycling workshops, digital literacy sessions and storytime for children. The Open Book Youth Fest is also taking place in various Cape Town libraries this week. Enquire with your local library to get the schedule.
Have you got an overdue book to return this Fine Free Week?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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