The University Libraries at the University of Colorado at Boulder is changing its book fine procedure in order to minimize the number of library books that are declared "lost" by the Libraries and billed by state collections as part of a larger response to overall budget constraints.
As a result, most books checked out from the University Libraries after July 1 will no longer be subject to overdue fines if they are returned within 90 days of the due date. However, circulating items that are recalled and returned after the new due date will accrue fines. Items more than 90 days overdue may be billed.
Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to renew all books after July 1st to become entered into the new system.
The length of time between the first day overdue and the time when a bill is generated will be extended from 28 days to 90 days. This will apply to all material except reserves and items that are checked out for short periods of time, such as bound journals. During this 90-day period, emails from the Libraries will encourage borrowers to return or renew the overdue material.
If a billed book is returned before collections procedures are initiated, a $10 charge will be assessed per book to recoup the Libraries' billing costs. Accounts sent to collections will still be assessed a 20 percent service fee to cover state collections costs.
If a billed book is not returned, a replacement fee will be assessed. The current replacement fee structure has not changed. In lieu of the replacement fee, the Libraries will accept a replacement copy of the book. However, the processing fee for this transaction will be increased to $50 to cover costs.
In addition, public patrons who apply for a new account or renew an existing account after July 1 will be charged a fee of $75 per year or $65 for residents 65 and older. Each patron will be issued a library card to check out items, and the new fines structure will eliminate most overdue (but not lost or late recalled book) fees for public patrons as well.
The changes will save the Libraries money by minimizing the number of items that are billed each month. The University Libraries have been compelled to take a number of revenue management actions, including additional cancellations to serial subscriptions, in order to offset ongoing budget reductions.