Library reduces fines for donations of food

When a can of green beans can help reduce a library fine and feed hungry people during the holidays, the response is huge.

Missouri River Regional Library began its annual "Food for Fines" last week and will continue until Dec. 16. For each donation of a non-perishable food item, a dollar is taken off patrons' fines, up to five per visit.

The items are donated weekly, as the library's food bin fills up, to the Samaritan Center.

Some people wait all year for "Food for Fines." Already the library has seen a strong response.

"We get a lot of vegetables, but it amazes me because a lot of people bring in $2 boxes of a complete chicken meal," Jessica Weiberg, circulation supervisor, said.

"I think they would pay their fine anyway and they just want to help others. It's nice to see."

A common donation to the food drive are vegetables because they are inexpensive, but another cheap item the Samaritan Center greatly needs is baby food.

The library doesn't accept all things, however. People should make sure their donations aren't expired, without labels or in dented cans.

"Food for Fines" is a win-win situation for patrons who've been avoiding using the library because of their fines and people who need extra help during the often difficult holiday season.

Even if people don't have fines, Weiberg said they are welcome to donate.

"We have had people think they have a fine and come in and think they have a fine or have more than they do and when they don't they just leave them," she said.

The Missouri River City Regional Library in Jefferson City has offered to allow patrons to pay library fines at the rate of $1 per food item, up to $5. The food is then donated to the Samaritan Center. (Stephen Brooks/News Tribune photo)