Fines & Charges

Great news! We're thrilled to announce that we're removing fines on almost all library materials and introducing automatic renewals! Get ready to enjoy hassle-free reading and borrowing!

Many public library systems in North America are re-evaluating the practice of charging overdue fines. An increasing number of libraries, both large and small, are adopting fine-free services for their patrons. While fines were initially intended to promote timely returns, they may instead discourage the return of materials.

We want everyone to access our library without worrying about late return fees. Overdue fines create barriers for those who need our services, especially those who may be marginalized or struggling.

The Huntsville Public Library Board believes that getting rid of fines on most items will make it easier for everyone to enjoy our wonderful services and resources. We’re excited to welcome back any members who may have drifted away over the years!

Our fine-free policies will take effect on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

Fine Free and Automatic Renewals on Almost All Library Materials

Library materials including books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, books on CD and jigsaw puzzles will be fine free and will have automatic renewals applied to them.

Your items will automatically renew on the due date, up to two times. We will email you to let you know if the renewal was successful or if someone else has a hold on your item. If you haven’t added an email to your library account yet, please do so to receive these notices.

The materials listed below will continue to incur overdue charges and will not receive automatic renewals.

Items With Fines and No Automatic Renewals
Type of Materials	Loan Period	Renewals	Fines
High Demand Books	14 Days (2 Weeks)	No Renewals	$1 per day
Interlibrary Loans	Loan period determined by the lending library	Renewal requests must be made 7 days prior to due date	$1 per day
Library of Things equipment and electronic devices: eg. hotspots, Nintendo Switch console, sewing machine etc.	Varies depending on the item	No Renewals	$1 per day
Ontario Parks Pass (Standard Pass & Lucky Day Pass)	7 Days (1 Week) Standard 3 Days: Lucky Day Pass	No Renewals	$21 per day (cost of Day Use Pass at many Ontario Provincial Parks)
Video Games: Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5	7 Days (1 Week)	1 Renewal (No Automatic Renewal)	$1 per day

Fine-Free Frequently Asked Questions

What does going fine-free mean for me as a library user?

This means that overdue fines will no longer be applied to your library account on most library materials.
You are still responsible for any library items that you borrow and are accountable for returning your materials on time, as other library users may be waiting to use these items.
If an item is overdue by 14 days, you cannot use your library account or card to check out materials, place holds, or access the digital library, including eBooks. Your account will be restored once the items are returned.
If an item is not returned 60 days after its final renewal due date, you will receive a bill for the item's replacement cost.

Will I still get reminders about my library materials?

Yes, items will still have due dates. We will continue to send courtesy notices by email, and you can request a due date slip when checking out. You will receive email notifications whether your item is successfully renewed automatically or cannot be renewed because it has been placed on hold for another patron. If you haven't provided your email address yet, please contact the Circulation Desk.

What happens if I don’t return a library item by the due date?

Library users who have opted for email notifications about overdue items will receive a reminder email when their items are 7 days overdue.
A follow-up email will be sent at 14 days overdue. At this point, their library account will be blocked from borrowing new materials.
If items remain overdue for 30 days, a replacement fee and a processing fee will be added to the library account. These fees can be reversed if the overdue materials are returned.
However, if items are still overdue at 60 days, the replacement fee and processing fee will no longer be reversible. The library user will need to pay these fees to reinstate their library account.

I haven't visited the library in years, will my card still work?

Library accounts must be renewed each year. If accounts remain inactive for several years, they will be deleted. To reactivate your account, please visit the library, and we will assist you. Remember to bring identification that includes your name and address, as it may be necessary to create a new account for you.

I believe that by paying fines, I support the Library. How can I continue to support the Library in this manner?

We warmly welcome voluntary goodwill donations at the library. You can also make a donation online. Tax receipts are available for donations exceeding $20.

Library Hours

Day	Hours
Sunday	CLOSED
Monday	10 AM - 6 PM
Tuesday	10 AM - 6 PM
Wednesday	10 AM - 6 PM
Thursday	10 AM - 6 PM
Friday	10 AM - 6 PM
Saturday	10 AM - 4 PM

Drop Box is available 24/7