Trading food for fines

Times Reporter

 

Many people may have pantries with cans, or boxes of food collecting dust, but are unwilling to toss them away. The Strathmore Municipal Library is offering a solution for those unwanted cans and boxes with its Food for Fines initiative. 

“We wanted to do something special to celebrate Canadian Library Month, so this month we decided to do a food for fines drive,” said Carmen Lefebvre, Assistant Director of Library Services.

“The way it works is from Oct. 11 to Oct. 31 any of our patrons can come into the library and they can bring any non-perishable items. For every one non-perishable item they bring we’ll waive $2 of their (overdue) fines,”

Food for Fines is something that other libraries have done for years, and this year the staff at the Strathmore Library decided it was their turn to try it out. 

“It’s a really great way for libraries to support their local community, to support their local food bank. It’s our way to give to the community,” said Lefebvre. 

“Here’s a good way to clear out your kitchen cupboards and this way also pay off your fines as well.”

Lefebvre said the library would also be collecting donations from anyone who just wishes to donate throughout the month. There will be a bin set up just inside the doors for people to drop the items into. As with any sort of food drive, the library is looking for non-perishable items such as canned and dry goods. If the Food for Fines is successful Lefebvre said the library may consider carrying it over.