Food for Fines at your local library

Residents with overdue library books can return them to their local library branch from now through to January 2020 without incurring any penalties – and help feed local families in need at the same time.

Kempsey Shire Libraries has launched its Food for Fines campaign again this year where fines for overdue library items will be waived in exchange for donations of non-perishable food.

Library members are asked to donate one food item per book fine to any of the shire’s library branches in Kempsey, South West Rocks, Stuarts Point and Hat Head through to January 2020.

All items collected will be donated to local charities to distribute in Christmas food hampers and into the New Year to those in need in the local community.

Non-perishable food items include; canned foods, noodles, pasta and rice, baked beans and spaghetti, long life milk, baby food and formula, toiletries such as deodorant, soap, shampoo and nappies.

Coordinator Library Services, Angie Meers, said the initiative encouraged people to return overdue library material, such as hardcopy books, audio books, magazines or CDs, while assisting those in need.

“Members can avoid paying fines, our library collection will be restored and people who are in need will receive a helping hand, it’s a win, win for everyone,” she said.

“Given the recent bushfire crisis, this time of year will be especially hard time for many people in our community. All food donations will be gratefully accepted – even from residents who don’t have any overdue library items.”

To find out if you have incurred any fines at the library simply drop into your local branch or give them a call.

For more information phone Kempsey Library on 6566 3210

Librarian at Food for Fines binKempsey Library’s Natasha Harris at the Food for Fines donation box at Kempsey Library

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