1. Items owned by any MAIN Library may be returned to any MAIN Library
2. Fines and charges incurred during the course of borrowing items may be paid at any MAIN Library.

Late fees are charged for the number of days material is overdue, providing the branch is open. Fines will be assessed based on each branch's schedule of days open. The fine for each item is computed automatically according to the library's borrowing policies and fine schedule.

All items follow the same fine structure regardless from which HCL branch (including Bookmobile) they were borrowed.

Overdue fines of $10 or more block the patron’s card from checking out print or downloadable items.

BORROWING POLICIES

Notifications

1. The Hunterdon County Library will attempt to reach patrons when items become overdue. Patrons may choose to be notified through e- mail, text, or a print notice.
2. Phone calls or written reminders are a courtesy; the responsibility to return items on time rests with borrower.
3. “Almost Overdue” notices will be sent out through e-mail depending on original due date of item.

1. Patrons are responsible for loss or damages occurring while the item is on loan to them.
2. When materials are determined to be missing or fully damaged, the actual cost of the item is charged to the user’s account according to the catalog record. 
3. Note: Some issues need the supervisor or librarian responsible for that collection to make a decision about replacement or payment. In some cases, damage is due to overuse or it may be determined that lesser charges are owed in order to replace just the missing piece (a disc, a case).
4. HCL items do not incur processing fees.
5. Patrons are not responsible for any associated overdue and/or processing charges for a lost item that is paid for.
6. Each member library has different policies for lost items, so if a lost item belongs to another library, the owning library must first be contacted to ascertain the action required.
7. Items that are long-overdue and assumed lost will automatically generate a lost charge.
8. Users who pay for damaged materials are entitled to keep the item that they pay for provided they indicate that they would like to keep the material.
9. HCL does not accept replacements for lost or damaged items.