Program replaces fines with donations
Residents can help reduce their library fines by helping a local nonprofit during the month of September.
Food for Fines is a monthlong program organized by the Santa Clarita Public Library and the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry, which works to collect and distribute donated food to those in need. This is the third year local residents will have a chance to participate, said Gina Roberson, Santa Clarita library administrator.
“Every year we get more inquiries asking whether we will do this again,” she added. “People get really excited to waive their fees and be a part of a good cause.”
By donating cans and other nonperishable food items, customers could remove up to $20 of overdue library fines or replacement card fees from each account. Individuals can donate as many food items as wanted. Each item can grant up to $5 to use toward a library or replacement card fee.
Those with more than $10 worth of fees are strongly encouraged to participate, said Roberson. For families who have multiple accounts, fees could be waived per account so long as food donation requirements are met.
While all donations will be accepted, some of the most needed donation items include cooking oil, peanut butter and canned meat, according to the Food Pantry. A complete list of needed items is found on their website at scvfoodpantry.org/howtohelp.
All three city library branches (Newhall, Valencia and Canyon Country) will have a donation collection barrel set up near the service desk.
For more information about the Food for Fines program, visit www.santaclaritalibrary.com or contact Roberson at groberson@santa-clarita.com or at 661-799-6105.