Pay your library fine off with a donation of food to charity

We know our library patrons love their local library - and for six weeks from October 22, even clearing an overdue book fine will make you feel good.

That's because patrons at our three district libraries - Thames, Mercury Bay and Tairua - will be able to exchange the value of any fines that they have accumulated for overdue books in return for a donation of food to local charities.

The food for fines promotion begins at the start of NZ Book Week (October 22) and will run until December 9.

People will have the option of donating a non-perishable food item instead of paying their overdue fees and each donated item will reduce the fee by $4.

"Thames, Mercury Bay and Tairua Libraries are pleased to support our local communities by offering a Food for Fines promotion," says Library Co-ordinator Linda Hayfield.

"We recognise the approach to Christmas can be a stressful time for families who are already struggling so hope our customers will embrace the opportunity to support local food banks by donating food instead of paying overdue fees.

Donations will be sent to Thames Food Bank and Whitianga Social Services.

Whitianga Social Services Manager Jenny Wolf says the donations will be very gratefully received.

"We're thrilled that the libraries have chosen to support fines going back into the community in this kind way. It's a neat initiative and certainly our winter season has depleted our food supplies so this is really fantastic timing," she says.

Thames Community Foodbank is organised by the Baptist Church but is an 'inter-church' initiative which gives 40 to 55 parcels every month to families, whanau and individuals and 70 families at Christmas with a special food hamper. They are completely reliant on voluntary donations and contributions with the average price of a food parcel being $60.

"No one likes asking for money, and neither do we. But it is important that there is a service like ours providing basic food needs for the Thames area, as well as Tairua and the wider community," says Thames Baptist Community Centre Manager Andre'a Hampton.

"On behalf of the community we at the Thames ICC Foodbank thank you for your wonderful support."

Those choosing to take part can donate to either or all charities and items can include: Tinned or bagged pet food; Tinned food such as spaghetti, baked beans, corn, tomatoes, soup, stew, tuna, sardines, salmon, corned beefCleaning products: Tooth brushes, toothpaste, toilet paper, dishwashing liquid, washing powder, soap. Baby products: Nappies, milk formula, baby wipes. Pantry items: cooking oil, marmite/vegemite, jam, marmalade, peanut butter, tea, milo, coffee, tomato sauce, mint sauce, vinegar, salt, cooking oil, glad wrap; Dry products: Flour, milk powder, sugar, soup mix, pasta, noodles, rice, , cracker biscuits.

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