Borrowing Policies

The Cranston Public Library is a fine-free library.* The information below pertains to the Cranston Public Library only. Other libraries in the Ocean State Libraries (opens in a new tab) network may have different loan rules, renewal policies, and fine structures.

*A limited amount of our special collections may still have overdue fines.

Borrowing Chart

Renewals

Renewals are automatic if no one else is waiting for the item.  Most items will be renewed for 2 additional loan periods.  See borrowing chart above. You may also renew your materials online at https://cranston.oslri.net/ (opens in a new tab).

Returns

Most materials borrowed from Cranston libraries may be returned to any RI public library. Breakable items such as Cool Tools and School Tools must be returned to the owning location ($5 fee if returned to a non-Cranston library)

All Cranston locations have outdoor library return boxes available for your convenience 24 hours per day.

Notifications

You can choose to receive due date reminders, holds, and overdue notifications via phone or email. As an additional option, you may opt-in to text notifications from your mobile device by following the directions here.

Holidays, Snow Days, and other Emergency Closings

If we are closed for a holiday, snow storm, or other emergency, your lending period will be extended for that day.

Pay Your Fees Online

The Pay Online button can be found by logging into your account in the Online Catalog (opens in a new tab). Once you enter your name and library card number, you'll have access to several options, including "Pay Online."

Responsibilities of Library Cardholders

Cardholders accept responsibility for all items checked out on their card. Library cards are non-transferable. Report lost cards or a change in address as soon as possible. You will be charged for lost or damaged materials, in accordance with Rhode Island state law.(R.I. Gen. Laws 11-41-14 (opens in a new tab))

Damaged Materials

The Cranston Public Library strives to provide our patrons with a collection of materials that are in good condition, including books that are free from food stains and water damage, and DVDs and CDs that are not scratched or cracked.

Because of these operational standards and our responsibility to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars, we may have to charge you full replacement costs if you return items that are:

• Stained with food, drinks, or other residue
• Wet or moldy
• Missing pages or covers; torn, cut, or chewed
• Marked up by pencil, ink, marker, or highlighter
• Discs that have deep scratches, scrapes, or cracks
• In an unusable condition due to neglect

We do not accept replacement copies of lost or damaged materials.