:: Food for Fines Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Food for Fines program?

Food for Fines is an opportunity for customers to do two good deeds at once: return an overdue library book and donate food to the hungry.

When will Food for Fines take effect?

The month of January – from January 2 to close of business on January 31, 2008 only.

How does the Food for Fines program work?

During the month of January 2008, customers can bring in non-perishable food items in payment for their overdue fines. The Food for Fines program will be held in conjunction with the donation of cloth bags from Public Utilities so that customers can have a free cloth bag to donate materials and/or to carry library book to and from the library.

Will January be a fine free period?

No. Fines will accrue as usual.

Who will benefit from the food donations?

Second Harvest Food Bank

What fines are eligible for erasing or decreasing?

Eligible debts are fines on library materials; that is, no processing or other fees, nor credit for lost items. Only fines will be waived.

Will there be a cap on how much is credited per item?

Yes. Each non-perishable item that is not expired will be credited as $1.00 (or any portion up to that amount) towards fines owed. If the fine on an account is $1.85 then two items will be needed to waive that fine. No credit will be issued for non-perishable food items. No change will be given.

Will there be a cap on how much is credited per account?

Yes. The cap per account is 25 items, or $25 waived.

More information is available about the program on our News page.