Materials Recovery Program

The Santa Barbara Public Library System encourages library patrons to return items on time so that others may use them.Over 1.5 million items are borrowed each year from the Library and most are returned by the date due. However, because a few Library customers do not respond in a timely manner to requests to return materials, the Library has established a Materials Recovery Program to encourage Library patrons to return books and other items so that others may use them.

 As a courtesy, the Library will email a reminder 2 days before the date due.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR ITEMS ARE:

3 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library sends you a courtesy reminder.

10 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library sends you a second courtesy reminder.

24 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library sends you a third courtesy reminder "FINAL NOTICE."

42 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library sends a replacement bill. Extended use fees will be assessed on all items in addition to the replacement cost.

63 DAYS PAST DUE
(and have accrued $40.00 or more in fines or fees)

• The Library forwards your account to a collection agency.
• A non-refundable $10 service charge is added to your account.
• The collection agency contacts you to request materials return or payment.

98 DAYS PAST DUE

• The collection agency reports your overdue account to a national credit bureau, which may affect your credit rating for up to seven years.

PLEASE NOTE: Library accounts with fines or fees over $40.00 due for 30 days will be referred to a collection agency.

For more information on the Materials Recovery Program, please contact your local library. Renew materials online at My Account, or by telephone call
1 (800) 354-9660 (toll-free within the 805 area code; outside of the 805 area code, dial (805) 546-0499 (not a toll-free number).