- Fines charges apply to overdue recalled materials, course reserves, and Interlibrary loans.
- A fine is not applied to your account until the item has been returned to the Libraries.
- You can check your fines by logging in to your library account. The listing of fines will indicate title of the item(s), type of fine and amount.
Fine types and rates
| Item type | Fine per item | Maximum fine per item |
|---|---|---|
| Recalled items | $4 per day | $56 |
| Course reserves One and three-day loan One and three-hour loan | $20 per day $0.05 per minute | $100 $100 |
| Interlibrary loans (ILL) | $1 per day | $30 |
| Media (e.g. film and audio recordings) | $10 per day | $100 |
Recalled items
If an item is recalled and not returned within 7 days, fines of $4.00 per day will be applied to a maximum of $56. Patrons will be given 14 days to return recalled material before the item is declared lost and administration and replacement charges are added.
Lost or damaged items
- Items that are lost or damaged must be reported promptly to the patron's home library where staff will determine the replacement options or cost.
- Lost or damaged University of Waterloo Libraries owned items or interlibrary loans (ILL) must be reported immediately to Ask us.
Replacement charges for lost books
Patrons will be given 30 days to return materials that are overdue before the item is declared lost. Items declared lost will incur the following charge in addition to fines for overdue recalls and course reserves:
- Replacement charge: $125/book (subject to adjustment at discretion of owning institution). Refund for the replacement charge will be issued if a patron returns the item before a replacement copy has been purchased. However, the fines assessed for recalls will be imposed.
Theft and vandalism
Theft and vandalism of library materials are subject to prosecution. All such cases are referred to University of Waterloo Special Constable Service.
Payment options
- Fines can be paid by one of the following ways:
- In person: at the Circulation desk either by Interac (debit), VISA, MasterCard, American Express or your WatCard.
- Online: email us and Libraries staff will provide you with further instructions.
Suspended library accounts and academic sanctions
Suspended library accounts
Library account will be blocked if one or more of the following criteria is met:
- one or more overdue recalled items
- $20 or more total in fines and charges
Academic sanctions
Outstanding lost or damaged books on your library account will result in a service indicator in Quest. This will result in transcripts and diploma being withheld, and you will also be prevented from registering in and dropping courses.
All Libraries items need to be returned and Libraries fines for lost books must be paid in full for the Service Indicator to be removed.
Fines appeal
We encourage you to first discuss your fines situation with Libraries staff in person, via phone during library hours
519-888-4567 ext. 84600 or via Ask us
In certain instances, Libraries staff might suggest to go through a fines appeal process and will request that you download and complete the Fine appeal form (PDF). Completed form could be emailed or dropped off at the Libraries' service desk.
Appeals must be made at your home university.