Fees for the late return of library books could be scrapped under new plans being considered by the Government.
Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring is to launch a new strategy to promote and encourage greater use of libraries.
The plan was discussed by the Cabinet on Wednesday but will not be formally launched for a number of weeks.
A Government spokesman said it will examine a number of measures, such as the abolition of fees for the late return of books. The usual charge levied for books that are overdue is 5 cent per day.
Other measures that will be considered include extending the opening hours of libraries.
Examining how libraries can make use of ebooks - through devices such as Kindles - may also form part of the strategy, according to the spokesman.
Mr Ring previously announced €5 million to upgrade and modernise the library service, an investment which was intended to pave the way for the new strategy.
