Effective 8/26/2018

Kent State University Libraries makes a wide range of materials available to our users and greatly appreciates having those items returned on or before their due date so that others may also use those materials. In those few cases where items have not been returned on time, those items are considered lost and will be billed for replacement. Items that are returned damaged may also be billed for replacement. Each item that has been billed for replacement will also be subject to a $25 Processing charge, whether or not the item has been returned.

Item Replacement Costs

In addition to the listed replacement cost, each item will be subject to a $25 Processing Charge.

Replacement Copies

Patrons may provide a replacement copy for lost or damaged items, instead of paying the applicable replacement cost. A replacement copy must be the same title and edition of the lost or damaged item and must be in new or like-new condition.

• Library staff reserves the right to determine if a replacement is in acceptable condition.
• The replacement may not be possible for some items, and the replacement charge will have to be paid.
• Accepted replacement copies will be assessed the $25 Processing charge.

See the Replacement Copy Submission Form for detailed information and instructions.

Payment Options

Current library charges: Pay online using a credit or debit card, or by check or money order, payable to Kent State University. (Money orders may be obtained at banks; some retail stores; and the U.S. Post Office, including the branch office in the Kent Student Center.) On the regional campuses, please consult with your campus library to determine the process by which library charges are paid.

Please mail checks or money orders to:

Attention: Business Services
Kent State University Libraries
PO Box 5190
Kent, OH 44242

Library charges can be paid through your My Library Account.

Library charges that have not previously been paid will be transferred to the University Bursar’s Office and will become a University charge. Payment of University charges must be made to the Bursar and paid online at https://payonline.kent.edu/.

Please contact erabenst [at] kent.edu (Elizabeth Rabenstein) with any questions regarding Payment Options.

Appeals and Waivers

University Libraries is obligated to levy and collect library charges in a consistent, clearly defined manner. However, there are cases in which library charges may be appealed:

• Documented patron emergency:
  • Patron's personal or family illness, injury, or hospitalization. (Physician’s excuse is required).
  • Death of patron or immediate family member. (Printed copy of the obituary is required).
  • Military service, training, or deployment. (Printed copy of orders is required.)
• Weather-related or lock-down emergencies that prevent travel.

In-person appeals are not accepted on the Kent Campus; please complete the Appeal Form below to start the Appeals process. If you are on a Regional Campus, please contact your Regional Campus Library Director regarding appeals.

To facilitate the appeals process, please complete the Appeal Form. Processing charges cannot be waived. Please expect a response to your online appeal within five business days.