Fine Free FAQs
What if I have overdue items?
Please return them! You will NOT be fined. However, all items must be returned or replaced within the 45 day grace period or your account will be charged to replace those items.
What will happen to overdue items now?
After a library item is overdue, your account is blocked until the item is returned or replaced. If an item is more than 45 days past due, your account will be charged the cost to replace that item.
Will I have to wait longer for items I want?
No. According to library research, fines do not affect return rates or timing. Our patrons tend to return items on or within a week of their due dates.
Do the items I check out have due dates now?
Yes. As before, items checkout for either 14 days or 28 days with two renewals. Of course an item cannot be renewed if it has a hold on it.
What if I have fines from before?
All pre-existing overdue fines have been removed from your account. However, February is typically Food for Fines month, so we are encouraging patrons to donate to Food for Going Fine Free in the jars by the checkout computers.
Will I still receive notices when items are coming due or are overdue?
Yes. If your email is in the system, you will receive email notices. If you've signed up for texts, you'll receive text notifications. We will still mail out overdue notices.
What will the libraries do without the fine money?
Fines account for a small percentage of our operating budget, and this number has decreased over time.
A conscience jar will be at the check out desk allowing patrons to donate the fines they would have paid should they wish.
What happens to an item that is returned after it has been over the 45 day grace period and charged to an account?
The 45 day grace period is in place to resolve lost or damaged items. Unfortunately, once an item has been charged to an account, materials are the property of the patron and replacement fees will not be removed.
If I pay for an item and then find it, can I return that item for a refund?
Unfortunately, once a past due item has been paid for, materials are the property of the patron and replacement fees will not be refunded.