By Phillip Rushman / Staff Writer

Murrell Library wants its items back—and soon. With the semester wrapping up, library staff are reminding students that borrowed materials aren’t theirs to keep and need to be returned by May 5.

A notice sent to all Missouri Valley College students warned that unreturned electronic devices could result in replacement charges of up to $800 added to student accounts. “To avoid these charges, we strongly encourage you to return all borrowed items by the due date,” the message stated.

Library staff say the reminder is part of routine end-of-semester outreach.

“This practice helps ensure that students who are no longer using their materials are reminded to return them, as many either forget they have items checked out or no longer require them at the end of the semester,” said Bathsheba Love of Murrell Library.

Love also emphasized that the library is flexible when students communicate their needs. “If a student still needs an item beyond the due date, we are always willing to grant an extension upon request,” she said. “Our goal is to support academic success while also managing our resources responsibly.”

Unreturned items cause more than just inconvenience. The library noted that materials are often left in residence halls or taken off campus, which can lead to delays in replacing them.

“We are required to charge the student for the replacement cost of the item,” the notice said. “Unfortunately, we are unable to replace lost items until the associated charges are resolved.”

For help with checkouts or to ask about extensions, students are encouraged to visit the front desk or speak with a staff member.