• Overview:

  • The Library no longer charges overdue fines for materials. This applies to Chatham Area Public Library cardholders and registered reciprocal borrowers only.

• Why the Change?

  • Overdue fines create social inequities.
  • Encourages positive patron experiences.
  • Improves accessibility and equity of services.

• How It Works:

  • Loan Periods & Notices:

    • Items must be returned or renewed by their due date.
    • Up to 3 overdue notices will be sent (via email or mail).
    • Accounts will be blocked after 14 days overdue.

  • Overdue Items:

    • 14 Days Overdue: Account blocked from further checkouts (including digital services).
    • 28 Days Overdue: Replacement cost billed. Account remains blocked until resolved.

  • Returning Items:

    • Once overdue items are returned, all charges will be removed, and borrowing privileges reinstated.

Common Questions

• Do items still have due dates?
  Yes, items still have due dates, and timely returns help others access materials. Email reminders are available for convenience.

• What if I lose or damage an item?
  You’ll need to pay a replacement fee.

• How are overdue items treated?

  • No fines, but accounts are blocked if items are not returned.
  • Access to digital content and physical checkouts is also restricted.

• My card is still blocked. Why can’t I use it?
  There are many reasons why your card may be showing as blocked. The most common reasons include you have fees over $5 for lost or damaged items, your card was reported lost or we received returned mail from your address. Please feel free to contact us and we’ll see how we can help you.

• How will the Library get people to return borrowed materials?
  “No fines” does not mean “no responsibility.” Patrons are still responsible for returning materials on time. Accounts with unpaid charges of $5 or more, or with materials that are more than 21 days overdue will be blocked from checking out additional materials until the items have been returned or replaced.

• Will popular items be returned late more often?
  Good news! Most fine free libraries report that a majority of patrons still return their materials on time, and waitlists aren’t affected. Don’t worry - library staff will be monitoring the effect on waitlists and adjust accordingly. And we always encourage patrons to return materials on time so others can enjoy them.

• Have past fines been erased?
  Most overdue fines are being removed. Contact the library to resolve account blocks.

• What about copying, printing, or faxing?
  Fees for these services remain in place.

• What if I use my Chatham Area Public Library library card to check out material(s) from another library? 
  If you check out material(s) from a library that does charge fines, you’re still responsible for paying any fines due to that lending library.

(Effective February 15, 2021)