Circulation: Damaged Items

It's normal for books to get worn in the course of their life in the library. We don't charge fees for normal wear and tear. If you find a book is damaged please let a staff member know before you check out and we'll note your account so you don't get charged for the damages when it's returned.

Uh Oh: If damage happens while you have the item, don't worry, we know life happens! Minor damage or non critical lost pieces (like a movie episode guide) will incur a couple of dollars for fees. Major damage, like taped, badly scribbled, water logged, or missing pages, or mold will require replacing.

Minor Damage: When paying for minor damages (ripped covers, excessive water damage, missing spine labels, etc.) bring the book to the circulation desk. Our staff will determine the extent of the damage and charge your account according to our fee schedule (see p. 10).

Major Damage: With major damage that requires a Palmer Library owned item to be replaced, you have two choices. You may pay the item fees assessed on your account. (Original cost of the book, + a $5 processing fee, + applicable late fees.) OR we'll give you information to replace the item at your cost, and we'll waive the fees.

Only for Palmer: This replacement policy only applies to items owned by the Palmer Library. You'll need to contact the owning library for policies regarding their damaged items. 

Replacing: To order a replacement, you must either visit or call the Palmer Library to get the correct ISBN number for the item. You may order the item at your local bookstore, or online. (Amazon and Alibris.com are popular.) Most bookseller search engines will find the correct item by ISBN number alone. We cannot accept items that are not in exactly the same edition.

Condition: Please be aware that if you order a used copy it must be in very good or like new condition. There cannot be any markings on the pages, or any damage to the spine or binding, and cannot be a former library copy or publisher's sample. It's wise to contact a seller to confirm these conditions before buying.

Exceptions: If for some reason you cannot find a copy, or if the copy you find is extremely expensive or outdated, please contact the library and we'll work with you to find an acceptable replacement.

For the latest information about library fees, please see the City of Palmer's fee schedule here.