Library Charging Policy

Shropshire Libraries aim to raise as much of its operating budget as is reasonable and possible through income generating measures, both to support the net budget provision through its service committee and to support the development and provision of existing and new services. It is important, however, that charges should not discourage use, nor should they counteract policies reflecting the requirements of social inclusion and aspects of the learning society. For example, charges for library use by children are kept to an absolute minimum.

The service recognises that the generation of income must always be balanced by the desire to encourage maximum use of the service and the need for an inclusive rather than exclusive service.

A range of items is purchased for stock specifically to address social exclusion and there may be no charge for loan, e.g. sub-titled videos.

The core services of library services throughout England and Wales have to be provided free of charge. The relevant legislation and orders are: the 1964 Public Library Act and The Library Charges (England and Wales) Regulations, 1991. Core services are generally understood to include:-

• admission to library buildings and other places where services are provided e.g. mobile libraries
• loan of books for predetermined periods
• general staff assistance e.g. answering enquiries
• reference and study facilities.

Libraries are permitted to levy charges for services that enhance the core service. Charges may be made:-

• to encourage prompt return of items borrowed for others to enjoy
• to cover additional costs e.g. postage for request cards
• for additional services e.g. loan of recorded music.

The Income generated may be used in various ways, to provide income for re-investment and enhancement of services or to offset other budgetary requirements

Anyone using libraries in Shropshire can expect the following range of service to be free of charge:-

• entry to libraries
• membership
• reference and information services
• books borrowed and returned by the due date
• use of study facilities
• using People's Network computers for access to the Internet, word processing and using other software
• enquiries and assistance
• talking books for children
• a range of events and activities.

Charges are normally made for:-

• borrowing audio-visual items
• items that are not returned by the date due
• items that have been damaged whilst on loan
• obtaining and issuing music and drama sets
• room hire
• exhibition space
• retail items
• photocopies and printouts
• withdrawn library stock
• some children's activities (to defray the cost of materials or speakers)
• some additional events, such as author visits.

Where charges are made, concessions may be available. Adults and children with the following disabilities may apply for concessionary membership:-

• physical disability including visual and hearing impairment
• hearing disability
• mental health problems
• housebound
• learning difficulties.

The charging policy will be explained to anyone joining the library. Leaflets are available explaining liability and a current Library Charges poster is displayed in all premises, on all mobile libraries and on the website. Receipts are not normally given. Staff may exercise discretion (e.g. when someone is ill or in hospital, when a younger children's book is accidentally damaged or when people find it difficult to pay a fine or charge). It is recognised that judgements can be difficult in some cases, and in any case of doubt or dispute the appropriate Strategic Library Service Manager should be contacted. Any dispute that may not be resolved locally may be directed to the Head of Libraries and Information.

See also list of current library charges.

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