CAPE TOWN. – The City of Cape Town’s Library and Information Services recovered 37 422 overdue items worth R4 767 836,51 over the past 12 months, with each Cape Town library fine free week giving patrons a window to return books and other material without paying a cent in late fees.
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What the Cape Town library fine free week recovered
The City ran four fine free weeks over the period. The most recent, from 29 June to 4 July 2026, brought back 10 300 items valued at R1 393 920. The National Fine Free Week in March 2026 accounted for a further 12 442 returns.
“The numbers prove just how popular our Fine Free weeks are. It is an opportunity for patrons to return books and other items without paying a fine for late returns. Returning books allows others to also experience reading their favourite book,” Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, told The Daily Pod.
“Our libraries have so much to offer and I would like to invite residents to visit their local library to enjoy a safe reading space and so much more,” she said.
Most returned titles
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series remains the most returned book across the City’s library network, alongside study guides for high school subjects.
Digital library resources expanding
While physical stock continues to move, the City’s digital offering is growing. Registered library members can access e-resources on the City of Cape Town website, with eBooks and audio books available through the Overdrive Digital Platform or the Libby app on smart devices.
Libraries also give members access to more than 7 000 local and international newspapers and magazines through the PressReader platform or app.
The online catalogue is available at opac.capetown.gov.za and the full list of free library services and programmes is published on the City’s website.
