Materials Recovery Program

Over 1.5 million items are borrowed each year from the Santa Barbara Public Library System and most are returned by the date due. However, because a few Library customers do not respond in a timely manner to requests to return materials, the Santa Barbara Public Library System has established a Materials Recovery Program to encourage Library patrons to return books and other items so that others may use them.
 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR ITEMS ARE:

14 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library sends you a courtesy reminder.

28 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library sends you a second courtesy reminder.

42 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library sends a billing notice.

60 DAYS PAST DUE

• The Library forwards your account to a collection agency.
• A non-refundable $10 service charge is added to your account.
• The collection agency contacts you to request materials return or payment.

165 DAYS PAST DUE

• The collection agency reports your overdue account to a national credit bureau, which may affect your credit rating for up to seven years.

For more information on the Materials Recovery Program, please contact your local library. To renew materials by telephone, call 1 (800) 354-9660 (toll-free within the 805 area code; outside of the 805 area code, dial (805) 546-0499 (not a toll-free number).