University Libraries

Summary

This policy describes fees that patrons are charged with for damaging library materials.

Definitions

1. Library Patron: An individual who is eligible to use the UNT Libraries.
2. Overdue: An item that is checked out to a library patron and it is passed the due date.
3. Billed: An item is billed when it has been overdue for an extended period of time. Returning the item will remove the billed status and there will be no late fees.
4. Fines and fees: Fines are library charges due to late return of overdue items. Fees are library charges accrued due to damaged or lost items.

Damage to Materials

Damage to library materials includes, but is not limited to spills, stains, cover or spine damage, cutting, tearing, and writing on the pages.

Returned Damaged But Salvageable

• The patron will be charged $15.00 fee for repairs of print materials.
• If damaged equipment can be repaired, patron will be charged with the repair cost.

Returned Damaged Not Salvageable

• The patron will be billed the lost item fee for the item.
• In some instances, all or a portion of the overdue fines will be charged as well.

Dates

• Approved: 06/03/12
• Revised: 01/11/17, 09/06/17, 06/24/20; 06/06/24
• Reviewed: 07/08/24

License Information