Library Fees

Not all students realize the Samuel Read Library at LSC works just like any other library- late fees included, said Donna Edwards, library circulation coordinator.

These fines may not seem large, but they can add up quickly. Robin Taylor, who works circulation at the library, said she's seen students owe up to $200 in late fees, and has seen professors who owe even more. "I don't even want to talk about [the fines] on lost books!" she said.

There is a one week grace period past the due date for any item borrowed. After this week, late fees for books are 10 cents each day, and for videos or DVDs the fee is one dollar each day it's late. For items that are on reserve, the late fees increase in increments of 15 minutes rather than by days. The maximum late fee that can be accrued on any one item is 10 dollars.

The amount of money that the library collects in fines varies from month to month. In May, many students are returning overdue books to clear their names before the school year ends, so this is when the most money is collected. In May 2009, $440 was collected in fees for overdue items. The year before, in May 2008, $322 was collected. Slower months of the year include summer months and the beginning of the school year. For example, last month the library only collected $97.

The money that is collected from these fees goes directly into the library budget. This money is used to buy supplies needed for the library.

In past years, there have been amnesty days. When this happens, students are able to bring in an item with an overdue fine accompanied with a nonperishable food item. If they do this, the fee will be waived. The food collected is donated to the local food shelf. However, don't wait to return your books till this time, because it does not necessarily happen every year, and when it may happen varies.