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New MIT Libraries Fine Policy to Take Effect July 1

Heather Denny
MIT Libraries Communications Coordinator
hdenny@mit.edu
617.253.5686, (F) 617.253.8894

May 6, 2004

On July 1, 2004 the Libraries will implement a new fine policy for overdue books and materials. The daily fine for a 28 day item will change from $.25/day to $.50/day. The fine for reserve materials will change from $1.00/hour to $3.00/hour. Replacement charges for a book will change from $125 to $150.

The reason for the change in fines is to provide a greater incentive for patrons to return their books/materials on time - maximizing the availability of materials for the entire MIT community. According to Steve Gass, MIT Libraries Associate Director for Public Services, "Fines haven't increased since 1991 and we've discovered that the current rates are not enough of a deterrent. This has been particularly problematic with materials put on course reserve. We need to make sure that the information our users rely on us to provide is readily available to all students, faculty, and staff. Fortunately the vast majority of our library users return their materials on time and won't be affected."

The Libraries will continue to send out courtesy notices to remind patrons by email of upcoming due dates as well as the new policy. Patrons who are unable to return materials to the Libraries on time are encouraged to renew online using the "Your Account" feature in Barton. To learn more about managing your Library account and avoiding fines with "Your Account," stop by the circulation desk of any MIT library, or visit Barton Basics: Your Account.