Why is the Library using a recovery agency?
More than 14,000 people in Lee County have at least one overdue library item and library staff would like to get those items back on the shelves for others to enjoy. The recovery agency works extensively with libraries in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. They specialize in the recovery of overdue materials and have an excellent record of treating library patrons respectfully and fairly.

If I have a late item, when would my account be sent to the recovery agency?

If an item has not been returned within 30 days from the original date due and charges on the account are greater than $25, the library user will receive a bill by mail. A $10 service fee will be added to the patron’s account at this time. If all outstanding items are returned and all fines and fees are received at the library within 10 days of this bill, the $10 service fee may be waived by library staff.

What if I don’t know what the late item is?
Contact your library or call us at Telephone Reference at (239) 479-4636. We’ll check on your account and let you know what item is overdue. You can also check your account online at website at www.lee-county.com/library. Click “my account”.

What if I’m sure I returned it?
Please contact a Circulation Supervisor or Manager at the library location nearest you.

What if I can’t find the item?
Patrons who lose items are asked to pay the replacement cost. The library will let you know what the replacement cost is for the item. If the item is more than 60 days past due, there will also be a $10 service fee.

How do I find out how much my overdue charges will be?

The charge is 10 cents per day with the maximum late fee per item of $5. If you receive an overdue notice, it will include the date the item was due to be returned. For information on your account during library hours, you may speak with a staff member by calling (239) 479-4636; have your library card number ready. Automated information is available 24/7 by calling (239) 338-3518 or by visiting the Lee County Library System website at www.lee-county.com/library. Click “my account”.

How do I make a payment?

All payments should be mailed or brought in to the library you normally use.

Do I have to pay my account balance in full?
If you would like to make a partial payment, please contact a Lee County Library System location and make arrangements with a Circulation Supervisor or Manager.

Why do I have to pay a service fee?
In fairness to library users who return items or pay charges in a timely manner, the cost of the service will be passed on as a $10 fee to each patron whose account is turned over to the agency.

If I pay a service fee, do I still pay a late charge?
The $10 service fee may be waived if items are returned within 10 days of receipt of the bill. Late charges are not waived. Late charges are 10 cents per day, per item with a maximum late charge of $5 per item.

When I make a payment, how soon can I check out items again?
Library users with an account balance under $25 may still check out items. Payments made at your library will be credited to your account the same business day. If mailing a payment, ask a Circulation Supervisor or Manager at your library if your payment has posted to your account. Accounts are updated daily.