All of the public libraries in Jefferson County will participate in the fifth annual "Food for Fines'' drive held in September that allows patrons to pay off up to $10 toward their library fines with donated canned or boxed foods. One dollar in fines will be waived for each item of donated food. The waived fees apply to fines only. The food drive is open to anyone, even if they do not have overdue materials. Expiration dates on foods must be visible on all donated food. “Our goal is to encourage users to return overdue materials while also giving back to our communities,” said Patricia Ryan, director of the Jefferson County Library Cooperative (JCLC).  

The effort, which is being coordinated through the JCLC, comes at a time when area food banks and pantries are running low on donations. Librarians in Jefferson County hope this campaign will be the boost several nonprofit food groups need as they approach the fall holidays. The libraries plan to donate goods to United Way Food Bank, Greater Birmingham Ministries and Magic City Harvest. Individual libraries may also decide to donate items to a local church or charity of their choice. 

“Food for Fines” is held in conjunction with the annual "National Library Card Sign-up Month." In September, cardholders can trade in their old wallet library card for a keychain library card during the sign-up campaign. Or, they can replace their worn out card with a free replacement card. Any other time, a replacement card would be $3.

For more information visit http://www.jclc.org/Reader/2012/fall/page1.htm.