Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fine structure for the GW Libraries?

• Circulating items: $0.25 per day, maximum fine $10.00
• Recalled items: $5.00 per day, maximum fine $25.00
• Reserve items (2 hour/2 hour overnight): $1.20 per hour, maximum fine $30.00
• Reserve items (3 day): $2.00 per day, maximum fine $30.00

[Note: This fine structure is the same for all libraries in the Washington Research Libraries Consortium (WRLC)].

What if I disagree with the library's records?

A fine inquiry may be placed when items you believe you have returned still appear on your patron record. A fine inquiry may be made in person at the Check Out Desk by asking to speak with a manager on duty.

When is a book overdue?

A book is overdue if you do not return or renew it on or before the due date.

Is there a grace period?

All other eligible borrowers receive a three day grace period for any book that has not been recalled. The library will waive the fine if the book is returned within the grace period. If the item is returned after the grace period, fines will be assessed from the original due date.

For example, if your book is due Tuesday, but you return it on or before Friday, the library waives your fine. If, however, you wait to return it on Saturday, you owe $1.00.

Note: This information is the same for all libraries in the Washington Research Libraries Consortium (WRLC).

Will the Library remind me that I have overdue books?

Please keep in mind that you are solely responsible for keeping track of library due dates. To obtain due date information, you can access your patron record through My Library Account, refer to the stamp in the back of the book, the due date bookmark, or the self-check receipt. As a courtesy, the Library will email you a reminder notice 5 to 7 days before the due date and an overdue notice the business day after the due date. Please remember these messages are courtesy reminders. Patrons are responsible for paying library fines whether or not they receive a notice.

What charges do I incur?

You pay twenty-five cents ($.25) for each day the item is overdue, beginning the day after the due date. The Library waives the fine if you return the book within 3 days of its due date. On the 4th day, however, you owe the fine for the full four days. For example, if your book is due on Tuesday, but you return it on or before Friday, the Library waives your fine. If, however, you wait to return it on Saturday, you owe $1.00.

What happens if I don't pay my fine right away?

If you owe over $25 to Gelman Library and/or a consortium university library, you will be blocked from borrowing or renewing materials, including course reserves, journals, and media items. Outstanding fines and fees in excess of $50 will block you from registering for classes, receiving your diploma, and/or obtaining university transcripts.

What happens if I don't return a book?

Forty (40) days after the due date, the book is declared "LOST" and you will be blocked from borrowing or renewing materials at the Check Out Desk, including all books, media items and course reserves. In addition, your account will be assessed standard lost item replacement fees ($80 as of July 1, 2016) and lost processing fees ($30) in addition to the $10 maximum overdue charge. To reinstate your privileges, you must bring the "lost" book in person to the Check Out Desk. You will be responsible for the $10 overdue charge when you return the book. If you do not have the book, you will be accountable for the full $120 in lost book charges. See Lost Books for further details.

Where and how do I pay library fines?

Fines for overdue or lost items GW owns may be paid by cash, check, credit card*, and GWorld card at Gelman, Eckles, or VSTC libraries. You may also make payment by phone by calling the payment line of the Check Out Desk at 202-530-3947.

Checks and money orders are accepted by mail and should be made payable to the George Washington University. Please include your GWid number on the check or money order.

*we accept all major credit cards, except American Express.

Fines owed to any WRLC consortium school must be paid directly to that school.