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Fees link

These approved fees are part of the budget and Fee Schedule process and are the subject of a City Ordinance. Approved fees for the current fiscal year do not change fees incurred from previous years.

Overdue Fines

Overdue Fines link

On February 17, 2022, the Austin City Council adopted an ordinance eliminating fines for Austin Public Library materials returned or renewed past the due date. This went into effect on February 28, 2022. We have created a Fine-Free Library FAQ to help library customers understand what this change will mean for them.

While APL no longer charges overdue fines for items returned or renewed past the due date, customers are still required to return materials when they are due back. When an item becomes 28 days overdue, it is 'assumed lost' by the system and the account is billed the cost of the item, as determined by the Library.

Lost or Damaged Material Fees

Lost or Damaged Material Fees link

If an item is lost or damaged, the account is billed the cost of the item, as determined by the Library. The Austin Public Library does not accept replacement copies for lost or damaged items.

Charges for lost or damaged laptops and electronic devices include the cost of the laptop / device plus a $150 non-refundable service charge per device.

Refunds are only eligible for up to 1 year from the ‘Date Billed’ for LOST items that have been paid for in full. In order to receive a refund, the item and a receipt showing payment in full must be presented.

Expired Hold Fee

Expired Hold Fee link

Holds not picked up or not canceled within the 10 calendar day hold period will be assessed a $1.00 fee per item. 

Delinquent Accounts

Delinquent Accounts link

The Austin Public Library has contracted with Unique Management Services to assist in recovering unreturned Library material and unpaid fees. Accounts with unreturned material and/or unpaid fees 56 days or more past due will be submitted to Unique Management Services and a service charge of $10 will be added to the balance.

Once an account has been referred to Unique Management Services, all fees must be paid in order for the card to be used again.

Paying Fees

Paying Fees link

  • Pay online with a credit card or eCheck at this link.
  • Fees can be paid in-person at any Austin Public Library location (except Recycled Reads and the Austin History Center) with:
    • Cash
    • Credit/Debit Card
    • Personal Checks (for the exact amount)
    • Money Orders 
  • Payments can be mailed to:
    • Austin Public Library Customer Service Office
      PO BOX 2287
      Austin, TX 78768-2287