Fine Free FAQ

Why did the library get rid of most overdue fines?

It’s good for our community! Our community is stronger when its members have access to the information, services, and materials that the library provides. Overdue fines may prevent people from using the library. Getting rid of overdue fines helps us provide an equitable and welcoming environment for all.

Do any items have overdue fines?

A few. Hotspots, STEM kits, video games, and items borrowed from an out of system library will still accrue overdue fines. Books, movies, and other items will not accrue overdue fines.

Are there still due dates?

Yes, items still have due dates. Most items are due two weeks from checkout. Movies, videogames, and magazines are due one week from checkout. If an item is not returned within 28 days of the due date, the item will be billed to your account. See the table below for more details.
Materials Loan Period Renewals (if no one waiting) Item Limit Overdue Charges
Books 2 weeks 3 renewals No limit None
DVDs & Blu-Rays 1 week 1 renewal No limit None
DVDs (TV Series) 2 weeks 1 renewal No limit None
CDs (Music or Audio) 2 weeks 3 renewals No limit None
Periodicals 1 week 1 renewal No limit None
Video Games 1 week 1 renewal (none if new) 5 $1/day
Hotspots 2 weeks No renewals One per household $1/day
Kits 4 weeks 1 renewal No limit $1/day
Out of System Library Loans Depends on item type and owning library rules Depends on item type and owning library rules No limit $1/day DVDs | $0.25/day books
 

How does the library get items back without overdue fines?

There are due dates for all items. If an item is not returned promptly, the account will be blocked 14 days after the due date. If the item has not been returned within 28 days, the account will be billed for the full cost of the item plus a $5 processing fee.

Can I still be charged overdue fines if I use my card at another library?

Fines are set by the lending library. If you visit another library, the items you check out will adhere to that library’s collection policy.

I have a card with old overdue fines on it. Can I still use it?

Existing overdue fines were waived in most cases. Replacement charges still apply. If you see old charges on your account, contact the library for more information.

How does the library make money without fines?

Most of the library’s budget comes from property taxes. Late fines made up less than 1% of the library’s budget. It is more important to provide access to more of our community members than to continue charging overdue fines. You can support the library by donating to us directly or by joining the Friends of the Manhattan-Elwood Library Foundation.

How can I pay a fine to unblock my account?

Fines can be paid in cash at the library. You can also log in to your account and pay online with a credit card.

How to Pay Online:

  • Go to mpld.org.
  • Click on “Account Login” at the top of the screen.
  • Enter your library card number and pin number. (The pin number is usually the last four digits of your library card number unless you changed it.)
  • Click on “Fines/Fees” on the left side of the screen.
  • Follow the directions to pay with your credit card.

Will I have to wait longer for popular items to be returned?

No,  we have not seen a noticeable difference in wait times since becoming fine free. Most library users still return their items on time.

What happens if I return an item after I receive a bill for it?

If you receive a bill for an item, it has been in your possession for at least six weeks and is 28 days overdue. The library may not accept returns after day 28 and may not remove the bill from the account particularly if the library has ordered a new copy for our collection. We encourage everyone to reach out to the staff at the library before an item is 28 days overdue to resolve any account issues. We want our materials back so they can continue to be shared with our community and not to charge for a replacement if it can be avoided.