Renewals, Fines & Drop Box Use
When does the Library renew or check in my books and other items?
If you email or call the Library with a request to renew, the renewal will be based on the time the request is received. Therefore, if the request is received after the Library closes for the day, the renewal will be made on the next business day.
If you place an item in the outdoor return boxes, the item might not check in until the next business day. We usually empty the boxes once a day, in the morning, but this can vary. We tried doing evening pickups at a specific time, but it is just not always possible due to weather. Therefore, you should always count on your returned item being checked in the next day.
Why is this important? If your item is due today and you renew or return it to the boxes too late, you may incur a one day fine. To avoid this, simply bring the item into the Library for check in, or call before close of business and request a renewal.
Why does the Library even charge fines?
We have looked at the possibility of NOT charging fines, but in other libraries where they do not, items return late more often, or simply never return. This causes other patrons to have to wait a lot longer for the item they want to check out to return, or if it does not return, costs are incurred to replace the item. So our Library Board decided in fairness to everyone, charging a small fine is an added incentive to get an item returned in a timely manner for other users.
Why does the Library have 2 drop boxes outside?
The left box is for media (audios and DVDs) only, the right box is for print materials (books and magazines) only. We ask that you be extra careful to return items to the correct box to help avoid damage to discs, Playaways, and cases with heavy books. Beginning December 1, we will reinstate our old fine system for items returned to the wrong box. Some items cannot be returned outside. All launchpads, eReaders, and items that are too big to fit easily into the book drop slots should be brought inside. To protect the Library’s collection, if an item is damp or wet, dirty, has insects or other harmful debris or chemicals in it, or is in fragile condition, please bring inside and inform the staff.
If you have other questions about these policies, be sure to call us!