Most Scottish public library services have now joined the fine-free movement, ending fines for the late return of books.  

Removing barriers to access is a key action of Forward: Scotland’s Public Library Strategy, creating the momentum for Scotland’s public libraries to end fines for all.   

Breaking Down Barriers

The Fine Free Movement has gained worldwide popularity over the last few years with many libraries in Europe, America and Australia abolishing fines completely. Going fine-free helps to erase barriers to library use and encourages more people to borrow books without the fear of accumulating fines.

So far 21 public library services in Scotland are fine free. These are; Angus, Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East DunbartonshireEast Renfrewshire, Falkirk, Glasgow, Highland, Midlothian, Moray, North Ayrshire, Orkney, Perth & Kinross, Renfrewshire, Scottish Borders, Shetland, South Lanarkshire, Stirling, West Dunbartonshire, West Lothian and the Western Isles.