Gift and Donation Policy
The Hopkins County-Madisonville Public Library greatly appreciates our friends who generously donate materials. Your support is essential to the growth and success of our library community. Gifts and donations are accepted with the understanding that no restriction can be placed on their use, as full ownership has passed onto the Library.
When making the decision on whether or not items are added to the collection, the library will use HCMPL’s vision and mission, along with the collection development policy as a guide. In addition to retaining donations for the library’s collection, items may be used in fundraising events, donated to other libraries or local organizations, or discarded based on the need and condition.
It is not possible for the library to maintain records of decisions made for every donation and gift, nor is it possible for the library to make a determination of the donation’s value, due to income tax regulations. This decision will be left to the donor.
Overdue/Fine Free Policy
The Hopkins County-Madisonville Public Library no longer charges late fees/fines for overdue items. Library materials are considered overdue the day following the date due assigned by the automation system. Library users will be charged replacement costs for lost or damaged items.
Notifying Patrons of Overdue Items
Staff will informally remind patrons of overdue item(s) or charges on their account when the patron record is accessed.
The library will notify patrons of overdue materials at least monthly. Patrons may choose a method of notification via text, email, or postal mail. Regardless of notification method chosen, the library will send a mailed bill for materials that are 60 days overdue. The patron’s account will also be suspended when the bill is generated.
Damaged Materials
Patrons are not charged for normal wear and tear of materials but are responsible for returning library materials in useable condition. The library charges to replace missing parts or to repair or replace damaged library items.
Restoration of Borrowing Privileges
Borrowing privileges will be restored when all the following conditions are satisfied:
All items long overdue are returned
Lost items on the account are returned or paid for
Withdrawing Overdue Materials
Materials are changed from “lost” to “withdrawn” after 180 days by the automation system. The patron will be charged the list price for the overdue materials that have been withdrawn. Full payment is required to restore borrowing privileges. Patrons may also purchase and donate a replacement for the exact item(s) lost/damaged.
“Withdrawn” items are deleted by Technical Services staff at least monthly. After one year, “withdrawn” items are purged from the catalog completely. Patrons will not be credited or refunded for items that are found after the item has been purged from the catalog.
Extenuating Circumstances
Patrons who are unable to return materials to the library due to extenuating circumstances (illness, acts of God or other emergencies) may have charges waived or due dates extended at the discretion of a supervisor.