Most library services are provided free of charge, but we do charge for a few things. If there are fines or fees on your account, you can pay them at the main desk. In order to check out materials, the fines on your account must not exceed $10. Fines may be paid by cash or personal check. We do not accept credit cards.
Overdue Fines
Overdue items are fined at a rate of $2 per day for mobile hotspots, $1 per item per day for videogames and kits. Most other materials do not have per-day overdue fines for late returns; however, all library materials are subject to lost-item charges (see below). Days that the library is not open (e.g., Sundays) do not count toward the number of days for your fines. Items returned in the book drop overnight will count as having been returned the previous evening, even if they are returned after midnight; but once we open in the morning and empty the drop, it is a new day. Overdue fines are non-refundable.
Damage Fees
When an item is returned in poor condition, damage fees may be assessed, depending on circumstances. Damage is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Fees are not normally charged for ordinary wear (e.g., book bindings that come apart after repeated circulation) or for conditions that can be easily repaired (e.g., a CD with superficial scratches that can be fixed by our resurfacer). However, the library reserves the right to charge for damage that goes beyond what is ordinary and beyond what can be easily repaired. If the item has been completely destroyed or is not in good enough condition to circulate, the full price of the item may be charged. Damage fees are generally not refundable.
Lost Items
If an item cannot be returned because it is lost or cannot be retrieved, the price of the item will be charged as a lost item fee. If the item is later found and returned within 180 days of its due date, the lost item fee (i.e., the cost of the item) is refundable. If you believe you may be able to find the item, we prefer that you renew the item if possible and look for it, rather than declare it lost. We would rather have the item back, than your money.
Charged Items
If a long-overdue item is not returned for 30 days past its due date, it will be automatically marked as lost and the cost of the item will be charged to your account. The cost of the item is refundable, if you bring the item back within 180 days of the due date. The overdue fines are non-refundable, however.
Mobile Hotspot Improper Return Fee
There is a $5 fee for improperly returning a mobile hotspot (e.g., putting it in the book drop). To avoid this fee, return mobile hotspots directly to a staff member at the main desk.
Printing Charges
The library reserves the right to charge for printing hard copies using the computers and printers, microfilm readers, or photocopiers. For prices, refer to the Copies & Faxes price list.
Bounced Checks
If you pay fines or fees by personal check, and the check bounces, the bank will typically charge us a fee. We pass this fee along to you, in addition to the original fines or fees, which still need to be paid. Please don't write bad checks.