LBPL is (mostly) Fine Free!
Fees & Lost Materials
Starting Monday April 3, 2023, LBPL will no longer charge overdue fines for most items. Overdue fines will still be charged for new materials and special collections (museum passes, iPads, laptops etc.) All kids and teen materials will be overdue fine-free.
You will be billed replacement fee(s) for items that are lost, damaged, or more than a month overdue. Replacement charges will be cleared as soon as the items are returned in good condition. If you cannot return the items, you can either pay for the cost of replacement or contact us opens in a new window about other options.
All previously accrued fines and fees assessed for items owned by Long Beach Public Library have been cleared. If you owe fines and fees to another library, please contact us opens in a new window online or visit the Main Library to speak to a supervisor.
How will I know when my items are due?
When you check out any physical items, you will receive a receipt with the due dates of your materials.
As long as there are no holds on the book and no replacement fees on your account, most items will be automatically renewed up to two times. Auto-renewal notices are sent by email.
The Library also sends reminders when your Library materials are coming due or overdue. Courtesy reminders of upcoming due dates are sent by email or text. Overdue notices are sent by email or text.
You can check the due date(s) of your items at any time, as well as update your notification preferences, by logging into My Account opens in a new window.
Once your materials are 28 days overdue, you will receive a bill with replacement charges for the item(s).
How do I get email or text alerts?
If there is an email address associated with your Library account, you should automatically get email notifications about overdue items, autorenewals, due dates, holds ready for pickup etc.
For text messages, you must opt-in via your online account opens in a new window. Once you’re logged into your account with your Library card and pin number, go to “Edit Account”, enter in your mobile phone number, select the “Click to opt in” link and check the “Opt In” box.
If you’re not receiving alerts, please contact us opens in a new window online or visit any branch opens in a new window
What happens if I return something late or lose an item?
We do not charge daily overdue fines, so there are no charges for any item you return late, once you return it.
Items not returned more than 28 days after their due date are considered lost. A replacement charge for the cost of lost items will be added to your account in order to replace them in our collection. You cannot place holds, renew, or check out any physical Library material until you have returned your lost items or have paid for their replacement.
If the lost materials are returned in good condition, the replacement charges will automatically be cleared from your account. LBPL will refund any fees paid when a lost item(s) is returned within 14 days of payment, in good condition, and with proof of payment.
The Library is not able to accept replacement items purchased by patrons.
How can I make a payment?
You can pay using the following methods:
- Pay online by logging into My Account opens in a new window.
- Cash, check, and credit cards are accepted at the Main Library. Only cash and check are accepted at the Point Lookout and West End branches.
- You can also mail a check or money order (made out to Long Beach Public Library). Please be sure to reference your Library barcode number in the notes section.
Long Beach Public Library
Attn: Patron Services Department
111 West Park Ave.
Long Beach, NY 11561
What happens if the charges aren't paid?
Please return any items you still have and we will remove the replacement cost from your account. If you are unable to return the items or pay for replacement, please contact us to discuss your options.
Accounts of patrons ages 18 and older with an unpaid balance of $25 or more for longer than 60 days will be submitted to LBPL’s vendor, Unique Management Services, who will follow up on our behalf to assist with materials recovery. Your balance will NOT be reported to credit bureaus or affect your credit score.
Unique Management Services will contact you on our behalf until arrangements are made for repayment or return of overdue materials.
If you are unable to pay charges on your account, please speak to staff about your options. Contact us online, visit any branch or call the Main Library at 516-432-7201