Lost and Damaged Items Policy

LOST ITEMS

Library materials are considered lost if they are not returned within 45 days of the due date.  At that point, a billing notice is mailed and a lost item charge is applied to the patron’s library account.  The original purchase price is used to determine the lost item fee.

If an item is returned within six months of being marked lost, the lost item fee is waived and applicable overdue fines are applied.  If the lost item fee has already been paid, a credit for that amount will be applied to the patron’s library account.  This credit can be used to settle overdue fines and other fees.  No cash refunds will be issued.

The library cannot accept replacement items in exchange for lost materials.  It can be difficult to get the correct format and edition when acquiring replacements.  There are also additional costs associated with processing that aren’t considered when a replacement is purchased outside of the library’s normal channels.  Librarians may also decide that another item is a better option for the collection.    

DAMAGED ITEMS

Patrons are responsible for returning library materials in the same condition in which they were borrowed.  Charges may be applied to replace missing parts or to repair or replace damaged items.

Approved: 6:0 Library Advisory Board May 15, 2019