Borrowing Policies

Overdue Items

When materials become overdue, the borrower will be notified by email. If a library user has returned library item(s) that are still showing on their record, please call 425-564-2252, visit the Circulation Desk, or email the Circulation Department for assistance.  

If course reserve items and equipment including calculators and hotspots are not returned within three days of the due date, the borrower will be billed a replacement cost for the items.  

If books and magazines are not returned within 21 days of the due date, the borrower will be billed a replacement cost for the items. 

Replacement costs vary depending on the item. The bill will be sent to the borrower by email and the fees will show up in their Financial Account on ctcLink.

Damaged Items

All library users are responsible for the materials they check out. If materials are damaged while in the possession of the user and are beyond repair or no longer able to circulate (examples of damage include soiled pages or water damage, teeth marks, mold, mildew, missing or torn pages), replacement costs will be charged as for Lost Materials. 

Checking out and checking in damaged materials:

• Upon checking out items with minor damages, staff will note existing damage on the due date slip with descriptions of the damage (writing, marking, broken spine, loose pages, etc.), date, and initials. If damage is repairable, a hold will be placed to send item for repair when returned.   
• Items slightly damaged but fixable (barcodes torn or cut out, etc.) cannot be checked out until fixed. 
• Staff will carefully examine returned materials before checking in. Borrowers will be contacted for replacement only when it is clear that the item is newly damaged and beyond repair (Unreadable condition; wet, torn, or missing covers/pages, heavy stains, mold, blood borne pathogens, etc.)   

Lost Materials

All library users are responsible for returning borrowed items on time and in good condition.  If an item is still showing checked-out to a library user who feels that they have already returned that item, the library will conduct a search and will communicate the results to the user. 

• A library user who would like to appeal the staff’s decision may email the Circulation Department.  
• Circulation staff will forward the library user’s appeal to the Associate Dean of the Library with any relevant information and documentation. 
• The Associate Dean will review the appeal and make a final decision within seven days of its receipt.

Stolen Items or Items Lost Beyond the User’s Control

Library users whose borrowed items were stolen, lost, or damaged due to circumstances beyond their control may call 425-564-2252 or visit the Circulation Desk to speak with staff. They may also email Circulation for assistance. We know that every person’s situation is unique, and we are interested in working with you to find a resolution.