Library fines scrapped for carers

A new scheme has been introduced which scraps library fines for carers in Powys.

Powys County Council’s Library Service is introducing a new borrower’s category to help carers across Powys.

Carers will be able to borrow up to 20 books at a time for themselves and the person that they care for. It is recognised that it is often difficult for carers to get to the library so there will be no fines on these books if they are late back.

This library card will enable the loan of library materials in a wide range of formats, to support the enjoyment, literacy, mental wellbeing, information and learning needs of both the person being cared for, and the carer(s) themselves. No fines will apply to books borrowed on a carers’ card.

Cllr Rachel Powell, who is the council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said: “We all recognise the immense value of carers in our communities and it is very pleasing to be able to offer something in return by removing barriers to the use of the vast resources of our library service.”

The “carers’ card” was launched at a special reception in County Hall, Llandrindod Wells, during National Libraries Week 2018.

Carers who would like to obtain this service should ask for details in their local library.