Fines & Lost Materials

The purpose of the fine and lost material policy is to encourage the prompt return of borrowed library materials so that they can be available for use by other Library patrons. The Tarkington Community Library (TCL) assesses a fine to the record of any borrower who fails to return library materials on or before their due date. Accumulated fines will result in the suspension of borrowing privileges.

Fines (Per Day) For Overdue Materials

Patrons will be charged $.10 per day on all over-due materials.

Fines will continue to accumulate daily on all overdue items until the item is renewed, returned, reaches a maximum fine, or is declared lost by either the borrower or TCL. If an overdue item is successfully renewed, borrowers are responsible for the payment of any fines that accumulate while the item is overdue.

Borrowers are responsible for the replacement cost of library materials that are declared lost. Patrons must provide an EXACT replacement of the item (in new or like new condition) or the cost of new materials. If the material is “out of print,” the patron must pay for the newer edition. For example: if the material lost was a VHS, the patron must replace it with a DVD. Once TCL receives payment for a lost item, the item becomes the property of the patron. The Library cannot accept the return of or provide refunds or credits for lost materials if they are found after payment of replacement charges has been made.

Borrowers will be assessed the replacement cost of any library materials checked out to them if those materials are intended for in-library use only, and are not returned by the end of the designated loan period.

Borrowing privileges will be suspended for cardholders with fines.

Payment Method

Fines can be paid at TCL in cash or via money order or personal check.

Money orders and checks must be made out to Tarkington Community Library, Inc. Fine payments can be made in person or mailed to:

Tarkington Community Library

3032 FM 163

Cleveland, TX 77327

To facilitate processing, include the patron’s name and library card number in the note/memo field of any check or money order mailed.