Returning

Library materials may be returned at the G/F Service Counter during its service hours. Most items can also be deposited via the Book Drop at any time.

The Library sends various notices as courtesy reminders; however, failure to receive these notices does not exempt borrowers from fines. To avoid penalties, please monitor your email and “My Circulation Record” regularly.

A. Self-Return Service

  1. Users may return library books at the Book Drop or the External Reader Cards at the Card Return Box located near the Library entrance.
  2. Items deposited in the return boxes will be checked in during regular library hours according to the following schedule:
     
    Collection Time Term Time
    Monday – Friday Saturday
       9:30 am*
    2:00 pm & 7:30 pm    		  10:30 am*
    2:00 pm & 5:00 pm

  1. The date of return will be back-dated to the previous working day for items from the first collected batch*.
  2. Users are encouraged to check their updated circulation records one hour after the collection time.
  3. The following materials cannot be placed in the Book Drop and must be returned to the G/F Service Counter during opening hours:

    • Multimedia materials
    • Books with accompanying materials

  1. Do not force books into or leave them outside the Book Drop. Please do not use the service if it is full.
  2. The Library will not be responsible for damages or loss of materials in the return boxes.

B. Fines & Fees and Payment Methods

  1. Overdue fines may be charged according to different items.
  2. If an item is overdue for 21 days, your library account will be blocked until the item is returned.
  3. If an item is overdue for 35 days, it will be assumed to have been lost by the borrower, who will be charged accordingly. Charges will include a non-refundable processing fee of $100, the full value of the replacement, and any overdue fines accrued.

Material Loan Period Fines Maximum Fines
Books 180/120/90/30 days $1/day
$3/day (recalled)		 $90
Accompanying Materials
Multimedia 21/14/7 days $1/day
Bound Serials (Prefix) 7 days $1/day
Course Reserve 7 days $1/day
External Reader Cards 14/5/3 days $5/hour
Rare Materials Collection
(2/F and 5/F)		 Same day loan $30/day
Special Collection (Library Storage)
Reference Book  (6/F Closed-stack)


Payment Methods

  • Online Payment
    • Mobile payment (FPS, Alipay內地版, WeChat Pay, and PPS )
  • Payment at Library G/F Service Counter 
    • Mobile payment (FPS, Alipay內地版, WeChat Pay, and PPS )
    • Octopus Card
  • How to use online payment?
    1. Login My Circulation Record
    2. Click “FINE + FEES” on top bar menu
    3. Click “PAY FINES”
    4. You will be redirected to the payment gateway, where you can choose the payment method (FPS, Alipay內地版, WeChat Pay, or PPS)

 

 

 

C. Loss or Damaged Items

Borrower Responsibilities & Fees for Lost/Damaged Items

  1. Care of Materials
    Borrowers are responsible for maintaining all library materials in good condition. Books must not be written on, marked, or damaged in any way.

  2. Replacement Costs
    For lost or damaged items, borrowers will be charged:

    • The current market price of the item

    • If market price cannot be verified, an estimated replacement cost will apply

    • A HK$100 non-refundable processing fee per item

  3. Replacement Policy
    The Library cannot accept physical copies provided by users as replacements for lost or damaged items.

  4. Return of Found Items
    If the item is located and returned before payment is processed:

    • Replacement costs will be waived

    • Processing fees and any overdue fines remain payable

  5. Payment Terms
    No refunds will be issued for payments made, regardless of subsequent item recovery or resolution.