From 1 October 2026, Libraries Unlimited are abolishing overdue fines in Torbay and removing all existing overdue charges.

Libraries Unlimited, the charity commissioned to run the libraries in Torbay, already scrapped late fees for children and young people in 2022, in an attempt to remove barriers to reading. With this roll out to all users it is hoped this will go even further. The charity is encouraging library users to make the most of the change, while continuing to return or renew books so that they remain available to everyone.

Alex Kittow, Chief Executive Officer at Libraries Unlimited said: “Our hope is that this brings people back into the libraries who haven’t been borrowing books because of overdue fines on their account. We want people to know the slate has been wiped clean. We don’t want there to be any barriers to people using the library and we hope that this will help people to borrow more books. We also want to remind people that books are expensive and we do need the books back so that hundreds of thousands of people across Torbay can benefit from the joy of reading for free.”

Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events at Torbay Council, said: “We want our libraries to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. Removing overdue fines is a positive step that will help more people make the most of their local library without worrying about past charges. We hope it encourages residents to borrow more books, discover new opportunities, develop new skills and enjoy the wide range of services and support our libraries have to offer.”

The move applies to overdue fines only. Users will still have loan periods and will be asked to return or renew items when they are due. Reservation fees and charges for lost books will remain. Late fees are also being scrapped at all Libraries Unlimited libraries in Devon.