AN amnesty for forgetful readers across Bolton is set to come to an end.

Ever since the start of the first lockdown, fines for overdue books have been waived, by Bolton's library services.

But now it has been announced that penalties for later returns will be restarted from January 17.

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "The temporary suspension of library fines for adults, begun at the start of the first Covid lockdown, is coming to an end.

"We will start charging for overdue loans again from January 17.

"Until that date, long overdue books can still be returned fine-free to any Bolton library.

"We would love to get these books back on our shelves for other customers to borrow."

Library officials say if any readers have any queries about the reinstatement of fines they can call staff on 01204 333173 or e-mail libraries@bolton.gov.uk

And details of fines can be found online at www.bolton.gov.uk/libraries

Earlier this year The Bolton News reported that opening hours in some borough libraries would be curtailed. But readers in Bromley Cross would get extra time.