How can I pay my library fines?

Northwestern does not charge daily overdue fines for most circulating items. Exceptions include:

  • Recalled items and Multimedia Center items accrue a fine of $1 per day.
  • Reserve items, including laptop/phone chargers and headphones, will accrue a fine of $1 per hour.
  • Study aids will accrue a fine of $5 per day.

Overdue fines will apply at all times, including over holidays, vacations and intersessions. The item will be billed to the user account as a "lost" item on the 30th day it is overdue. The following fees will be charged for each book that is overdue more than 29 days:

  • A replacement fee, which is a minimum of $125 per item for most collections

Fines may be paid by cash or check at the circulation desk. The library does not provide change. Fines may also be paid by mail with a check made payable to Northwestern University.

Twice a year, at the end of each semester, Northwestern University Libraries hosts a food drive.  Overdue library fines are reduced by $5 for every food item donated.



Updated: Jul 31, 2019