Hundreds of library books returned during amnesty

The 7 week amnesty that ran during February and March, saw more than 750 overdue titles returned to libraries across the county.

The longest overdue item returned was Havelok The Warrior by Ian Serraillier, the book was taken out from Hastings library nearly 48 years ago and should have been returned by 14 April 1975.

Residents are reminded that books can be returned to any library in East Sussex, and many have drop off boxes for out of hours returns.

Cllr Claire Dowling, lead member for transport and environment at East Sussex County Council, said: “It’s wonderful to see these books returned to our libraries, and I would like to thank our residents for searching out any overdue items and for taking the time to return them to us.

“Unfortunately, every year nearly 5,000 books fail to be returned to East Sussex libraries. The amnesty has seen many lost books return to our library shelves so books lovers can enjoy them once again.

“If, when items are due to be returned, borrowers are not quite ready to part with them they can easily be renewed. Items can be renewed in person at any East Sussex library or easily online.”