Libraries Tasmania reports member growth after late fees abolished

More than 8000 new members have signed up to Tasmanian government-run library services since fines and processing fees for overdue books were abolished in November last year, reports the ABC.

Libraries Tasmania lost 900 members in the same period the year prior. Executive director Liz Jack said most new members are younger than expected, with more members in the 30−39 demographic signing up.

‘We know that for the past few years at least, globally, there has been a decline in memberships in libraries and that is no different in Tasmania,’ Jack said. ‘So it’s significant at a time where it’s difficult for all libraries to find new members.’

Tasmania was the first Australian state to abolish fines and processing fees for overdue books. Libraries Tasmania will also abolish charges for Tasmanian book groups from 1 July.

Category: Library news