Lost or Damaged Materials

The library will notify the cardholder (parent/guardian in the case of a minor) of the replacement cost for a damaged or lost item based on the publication date.

  • The cost billed may be adjusted down due to age, circulation count, and normal wear and tear. These adjustments will be made at the discretion of the circulation librarian or library director.
  • Magazine issues that are lost or damaged are subject to a flat $5.00 charge.

A nonrefundable $7.00 processing fee will be charged for each replaced item.

When the damaged or lost item has been paid for, the item will be removed from the patron’s record.

Accounts with a balance of $15 or over will have their library privileges suspended. Accounts with a balance over $150 for more than 30 days may be turned over to a collection agency. Written notification will be mailed to the patron before the account is turned over to the collection agency.

If a patron finds lost material that has been paid for and returns it in good condition, in person, the following refund schedule applies:

  • Within 30 days of payment, a full refund of the replacement cost paid will be given.
  • After 30 days, a refund will not be issued.

Damaged items: If an item is returned with liquid damage or is wet, patron will be charged for replacement of the item(s). If there is concern for mold growth or other biohazards, the item will be discarded. If the damage is such that mold or other biohazards aren’t a concern, the patron may take possession of the item upon receipt of payment. Thirty days after billing, the item will be discarded.

Special items such as Learning bundles, LeapFrogs, MeReaders, Board games – missing or damaged items from multi-part sets or kits will be assessed fees on a case by case basis.

Book Club Kits – Damaged or lost copies will be billed a fee of $10.00 for each copy.

Items returned with damaged or missing cases, labels, covers, jackets, security features, etc. will be assessed fees according to the following schedule:

  • Label, barcode, or sleeve from movies/audiobooks - $1.00
  • Lockable AV cases - $3.00

Approved by the Library Board – 2025