Library Borrowing Policies

Loan Periods/Fines/Fees/Limits
Most library materials are loaned for 3 weeks. All current library card-holders may have a maximum of 30 items on a current account. This includes any combination of items checked out, holds (up to a maximum of five), and/or interlibrary loan requests. Fines are charged only if materials are returned late. Failure to pay accrued fines will result in the borrower's account being blocked and library services restricted. The library accepts payments in the form of personal check, money order, traveler's check (all over $5 with proper identification) and cash in any amount. We also accept checks drawn against other banks outside Illinois with proper identification.

Item Type & Maximum number allowed within limit of 30 items total	Loan Period	Overdue Fine (per item)*	Maximum Overdue Fine (per item)*
Paperback book (30)	3 weeks	20 cents/day	$10
Hardcover book (30)	3 weeks	20 cents/day	$10
CDs, Cassettes, LPs (6 each)	3 weeks	20 cents/day	$10
Videos & DVDs (6 each)	1 week	$2/day	$20
Museum Passports(For Adult Chicago Residents only) (1)	1 week	$2/day	$20

*Effective January 1, 2009

Renewing Library Materials
Learn how to renew library materials »

Returning Library Materials
Most materials checked out from any Chicago Public Library location may be returned to any Chicago Public Library location in person or through a bookdrop. Museum passports must be returned to the place of issue. Late materials will accrue fines. Patrons will be assessed a fee for replacement or repair of lost or damaged materials they have checked out. The Library will not hold patrons responsible for items lost or damaged in fire, flood or by theft when documented by a police or insurance report. No patron may check out additional items until all outstanding overdue materials are returned and/or fines or fees are paid.

Lost Items/ Refunds
If an item is lost, the patron will be required to pay for the library material and any associated overdue fines (up to the maximum fine). Once paid for, the item belongs to the patron. If the item is found within 30 days of the date it was paid for, a refund can be obtained by bringing the item and the receipt to any library location. Chicago Public Library refunds only the cost of the library materials; any associated fines paid will not be refunded.   Items paid for in cash that are $25 and under will be refunded in cash, at any library location.  If the payment was made by check for over $25, the refund will be issued by U.S. mail from the Chicago Public Library Finance Department within 30 days of the refund request.

Holds
Learn how to place a hold on library materials »