Lost & Found Policy

Created January 7, 2026; revised January 18, 2026

JMU Libraries operates Lost and Found at Carrier Library and Rose Library. We follow University Policy 4202 and 3106 (as well as public campus guidance) for the collection, retention, and disposal of lost, abandoned, or unclaimed personal property.

Where are the Libraries’ Lost & Found locations?

The Ask the Library Desks in Rose Library and Carrier Library are the central point to receive lost personal property.

As the Music Library operates within the larger Music Building, the Music Library sends tangible personal property to the administrative office for the School of Music and are managed by the building coordinator.

What does the Libraries’ do with lost personal property?

Receipt and inventory

We complete a Lost & Found tag for all property items, documenting a description of the item, location found, date, and initials of the library employee receiving the property. Wallets require two employees to be present for inventorying for security purposes.

Transfer

In accordance with University Policy 4202

• JAC cards are sent to Card Services
• Cash and coins are sent to the University Business Office
• Items of value, such as checkbooks, drivers’ licenses, high value jewelry, wallets, passports, computer equipment, and bicycles, are sent directly to JMU Police Department
• Keys are sent to the JMU Lockshop or Residence Life

Storage

Perishable or potentially dangerous items are not stored. Other tangible personal property, such as water bottles and clothing items, may be kept at the Ask the Library desk for 60 days. We will make reasonable efforts to notify potential owners. After 60 days, we send property to the JMU Surplus Property Office.

Lost & Found inventory tags are securely stored for one semester and then destroyed.

How can I claim lost personal property?

One can claim lost personal property by asking staff at our Ask the Library locations to check for their item(s) in their respective lost and founds. To ensure the right item is returned, staff will ask clarifying questions like when the item was thought to be lost and what it looks like, if that information is not already given.

Persons claiming property from the Libraries must have a picture ID or other satisfactory proof of ownership and must sign for the property.

One cannot pick up or receive property on behalf of another party. Requests to do so will be denied.

Have a question? Ask the Library.