We understand that it is sometimes difficult to return or renew your books on time. Please contact Information Services as soon as you can if you're having difficulties so that we can help.
Visit our fines and charges page for more information about Library fines and charges.
We may waive fines/charges in the following circumstances
The following is a list of the circumstances in which we may waive fines. We also outline what we will ask you to do in such cases.
The list is not exhaustive. We reserve the right to use our discretion in each individual case, and depending on the demand for books at the time the fines were accrued.
Illness
We will waive fines if you have not been in the Library during a period of illness. However, we may need to ask for proof of absence. In these circumstances a medical certificate should be submitted to Student Business covering the relevant dates.
Ongoing medical condition
If you have previously submitted medical certificates for an ongoing condition, Library staff may exercise discretion and waive some fines.
However, we cannot continue to waive fines indefinitely, especially if the books are in high demand.
If possible, you should make alternative arrangements for return. For example, return by post using our Freepost service in the UK (proof of posting is advised), or ask a family member/friend to return items for you. You can also contact the University’s Disability & Wellbeing Service who may also be able to offer advice and support.
Personal circumstances (for example, family illness)
If you have been dealing with extenuating personal circumstances we will waive fines for the relevant dates if you have not been in the Library. The University’s Disability & Wellbeing Service may also be able to offer advice and support.
Bereavement
We will waive fines if you have not been in the Library.
Unforeseeable transport or weather-related difficulties
We will waive fines if severe weather has closed the University or Library. If the Library is open fines may be waived, at the discretion of staff.
Books stolen
We will waive charges and remove the item from your record if you provide documentary evidence of a crime report.
The first time you’ve been fined for a reserved item
If you were unaware of the higher fines for reserved items, we'll waive the fine the first time this happens to you. Please speak to staff at the Enquiry Desk. However, next time you return a reserved book you will be expected to pay the fine if it is overdue.
We cannot waive fines in the following circumstances
You forgot the book was due
Books on loan are your responsibility and you should keep a note of due dates and times.
The book was reserved and you have already had fines waived for reserved items
The reserved book fine waiver is only available once.
You have been ill, but have been in the Library when the book was overdue
If you are coming into the Library for any reason you should bring all overdue books in for return/renewal.
You did not receive an automatic reminder notification
Automatic reminders are a courtesy. Books on loan are your responsibility and you should keep a note of due dates and times.
You're unable to access your online Library account
You should contact the Library as soon as possible by telephone during staffed hours.
You're on holiday, on placement or abroad
You should not borrow books if you know you will be unable to return them when they’re due. If books cannot be renewed (for example, due to a reservation) you can post them back to the Library using our Freepost service in the UK. We advise you to get proof of posting. Books should not be taken abroad.