Fee Structure

In January we changed our fee structure a little bit in order to use our resources more efficiently.  But before going into detail, we want you to know that the overdue fines have not gone up at all and that the new fees are minimal and will not affect most patrons.

• Guest passes for the computer will now cost $1.00.
• If you forget your library card and we need to look you up in the database, each look-up will cost $1.00.
• If your hold items are not picked up within 7 days and we have to return them the cost is $1.00 per item.  This will not apply if you contact us to cancel the hold or if you cancel online.
• New cards continue to be free but replacement cards will cost $3.00

We made these changes for a few reasons:  One is that whenever a patron comes to the library without a library card, we have to search the data base for the correct record.  It may only take a few minutes, but doing that search upwards of 20 times a day adds up.  It also increases the chance that we accidentally pull the wrong record.  It’s just not a good business model.  We’re very invested in working efficiently – not only because we think it’s a good idea, but also to protect you and keep your record clean and accurate.

The per item charge for not picking up holds was added to discourage patrons from keeping resources that other people may need.  East Fishkill patrons place thousands of holds per year and that is very good.  However, there is a cost to get all of those titles pulled and delivered.  Because many of those holds are for books and DVDs that are in high demand we want to get them on their way as quickly as possible if it turns out that you no longer need them.

We think that your library card is the smartest card in your wallet and we encourage you to use it on a regular basis.