Changes to Charges at Hedge End Library and the Launch of the Library’s Annual Film Membership Scheme

Along with all libraries across Hampshire, changes to some charges at Hedge End library will come into force today, Monday 20 September.

The cost for inter-library loans is rising by £1 to £2.50, to £3.50 for an urgent loan and £10 for an international inter-library loan.  It will now cost £1 to borrow music CDs (for a four week period) and £15 for music score sets.

Reading group sets and playset reservations will now cost £1 – the library says that demand for this service is growing by the year and more than 1,000 sets are available for reservation.

Research services will cost £26 per hour, although enquiries that need less than 30 minutes of time will carry no fee.

The changes are being introduced due to pressure on library budgets, and the library service points out that there has been no change to library fine rates or basic reservation charges and that in some cases the increased costs still fall short of the actual cost to the library for individual services, such as inter-library loans.

On the upside for library-goers money-wise, colour photocopying will now cost less at 40p for A4 and 80p for A3 and people on Job Seekers’ Allowance will be eligible for reduced overdue charge rates.

In addition the library is announcing a new scheme for DVD borrowers, the Annual Film Membership.

An annual payment of £40 will entitle members to take out two DVDs (or any audio-visual items including games and music CDs) at any one time, with no limit on the number that can be borrowed over the year – and there are no overdue or renewal charges. 

Changes will also apply from today to the Access Card scheme, introduced to help those with sight impairment.

It will now be necessary to produce documentary evidence of being registered as having a severe or partial sight impairment or learning disability and this can be obtained from Adult Services (0845 603 5630).

Under the new arrangements the Concessionary Audio-Visual Membership will mean two DVDs/music CDs, games or audio books can be borrowed at no cost at any one time plus free access to audio books will continue.

A Print Disabled Group Membership has been introduced to support groups with activities taking place in libraries and adult basic education tutors will now be able to borrow material for extended periods.