ODU Libraries to Stop Collecting Late Fines on Most Items

June 22, 2017

Perry Library

Borrowing materials from Old Dominion University Libraries is about to get a little more affordable.

Beginning July 1, the libraries will no longer collect overdue fines on general circulating collections (print books, government documents and media).

"We wanted to remove as many barriers as we could to Old Dominion students' ability to use the library," said University librarian George Fowler. "Students shouldn't have to worry about withheld transcripts or not being able to register for classes because they forgot to return a book on time."

This policy change makes Old Dominion the second college or university in the Hampton Roads region to cease collecting fines on general collection materials.

Studies suggest the collection of fines is not critical to materials being returned on time and there are other ways to ensure materials are returned, including billing patrons for lost or unreturned items. ODU Libraries will still charge for lost or damaged items and impose fines for items that have been recalled by someone who needs the book.

"There is a strong honor code in place at ODU and we fully trust students to adhere to that honor code," Fowler said.

Fines will continue to be imposed for late return of equipment, reserve materials, bound journals, recalled items and materials borrowed through interlibrary loan. No changes will be made to the fees imposed on users who fail to return materials or return them in damaged condition.