Fines Statement

Dear Drill Hall Library Users,

From September 2008 we will be implementing a new fines policy within the Drill Hall Library. Fines discourage library users from holding on to library materials beyond the agreed date of return as stated at the point of issue (whether book stamp or receipt from self-issue machine) and ensure that everyone has an opportunity to access resources.

To maintain consistency and fairness the new policy will require any student who wishes to dispute a charge on their library account to complete an Appeal Against Charges form (available from the library counter) giving the reasons they believe charges should be waived. No discussions will take place at the counter regarding fines.

All forms submitted will be considered by senior library staff who will notify claimants of the outcome of their application.

Invalid reasons for waiving fines are given on the Appeal Against Charges form and are outlined below:

• Lack of understanding of the library loans and returns policies
• Due date reminders and fine notices are sent as a courtesy. Non-receipt of a notice is not a valid reason for appeal
• Forgetting due dates - these are available to view in "My Account"
• Failure to correctly discharge a book using the self return machine
• Disagreement with the library fines structure
• Materials loaned to a third party
• Materials returned to the wrong library
• Out of town, overseas, vacations, field trips, placement

Please remember that the Drill Hall Library is a free service (to registered students of the Universities at Medway) and fines are avoidable charges. Contact your subject librarian if you would like any extra support or training regarding the management of your library account.

Best regards,

Drill Hall Library Team