Fine-free Procedure

Each item has a due date. Cardholders are responsible for honoring the due date.
The fine-free policy only applies to overdue items. Fees for lost or damaged items will be applied according to procedure.
The catalog system will automatically renew, up to 2 times, any items that are eligible for renewal and are not reserved for another patron.
If an item is 14 days overdue, the cardholder’s account will be blocked from using library services. Once the item is returned, the block will be removed.
After 45 days, outstanding items will be considered lost and will be billed to the cardholder.
Bills for lost or damaged items will include a $5.00 processing fee in order to offset the expense of the Library processing.
If an item is returned in good condition within 10 days after replacement charges have been assessed, the associated charges will be removed from the cardholder’s account and borrowing privileges will resume.
Items checked out at area fine-free libraries will not accumulate fines if overdue, regardless of where the items are returned or where the items come from.
Items checked out at a library that charges fines will accrue fines if overdue, even if returned to a fine-free library.

A reminder notice will be sent three days before an item is due.
Three overdue notices will be sent to a patron at the following intervals:
- 3 days overdue
- 15 days overdue
- 28 days overdue
Billing notices will be sent when an item is 45 days overdue and three overdue notices have been posted to the patron’s account.

Prospect Heights Public Library District