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Essex Council Faces Backlash Over £1.15 Library Fee

4/21/2026

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Story summary
  • Essex County Council proposed a £1.15 charge for adult library cardholders to reserve items.
  • Save Our Libraries Essex (SOLE) opposes the charge and has collected over 1,000 signatures for a petition.
  • SOLE plans to present the petition to Essex County Council after May 7 elections.
  • The council argues the charge covers administrative costs and is common in UK libraries.
  • The charge will not apply to children's books or digital items.