Return it on time, won't cost a dime.

When‘s your stuff due, and how do you know? Need to keep it longer? Learn where to return things and how overdue fees work. Set up an ELF account for e-mail reminders of your due dates.

For how long can materials be checked out?

  • Most books and audiobooks check out for 4 weeks.
  • Magazines and new books go out for 2 weeks.
  • Movies check out for 1 week; educational DVDs/videos go out for 2 weeks.
  • Video games check out for 1 week.
  • CDs check out for 2 weeks.
  • Rental items check out for $1 per week.
    Overdue fees are 10 cents per day per item (except rental materials at 20 cents per day, and video games at $1 per day).

Can I keep something longer?

Most items can be renewed so you can keep them longer, as long as no one else has requested them. You can renew in your online account or by calling us at 217/403–2000. When you call, please have your library card number with you.

How do I find out what I have due today?

Check your account online or call the library at 217/403–2000 and ask. Please have your library card number handy when you call.

Why don’t you stamp due dates on books now?

Due date receipts were introduced for two reasons. First, they make checkout much faster. As our library has grown busier, patrons were waiting longer at checkout.

Second, we have self-checkout stations in our new library, and they require the use of receipts.

Some people like the way receipts give them a list of everything they have checked out. Patrons also tell us how they like to keep track of their receipts, wrapping them around their library cards or posting them on their refrigerators.

How do I know when I have fees or overdue items?

You’ll receive a notice when you have an item overdue. If you owe a fee, we’ll let you know the next time you check out. You can also check your account balance and the due dates of your items in your account online or by calling us at 217/403–2000. When you call, please have your library card number handy.

Where can I return items?

Items from our library can be returned at any of our locations (Main Library, Douglass Branch, or Bookmobile), no matter where you got them. Our book returns are always open, even if we’re closed for a holiday. You can also return our materials at any local library in the Lincoln Trail Libraries System.

The Bookmobile wasn’t running, and I was going to return something there. What do I do?

You can wait and return it on the Bookmobile the next week; we won’t charge you an overdue fee. Or you can return the item by the due date at the library. Just don’t return it at the library after the due date; they will not be able to waive your fine.

How do I get e-mail notices to tell me when things are due or waiting to be picked up?

Add your e-mail address to your account information online or call 217/403-2000 and we'll do it for you. You can also sign up for the ELF service and receive reminders on whatever schedule you choose.

However, because e-mail can be unpredictable, we recommend that you call us or check your account online for the most accurate information.

What is the highest possible overdue fee?

The maximum overdue fee is half the cost of the item.

Can I pay by credit card?

Library fees can now be paid with a credit or debit card, either in person or by calling 217/403–2000. Use your MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or American Express.