Sometimes, fines get racked up at the library for many reasons, and for the next ten days, folks will have the opportunity to reduce their fines or wipe them off their account entirely, with Food for Fines. The initiative aims to help support local people in need of food, while also providing a benefit to those who have unpaid fines with the Portage la Prairie Regional Library.
Sharon Nichol, the library's Director, outlines who the food and fine relief will benefit.
"With Food for Fines, anyone can visit the library and contribute nonperishable food items in exchange for amnesty on library fines. All donations will go towards replenishing the shelves at the Salvation Army Portage Prairie Food Bank by donating. They are helping to stock their shelves and possibly getting a clean slate with your library account."
From May 1 to 10, Nichol explains that for each non-expired, commercially wrapped item they bring in, they will receive a five-dollar credit to their account, up to a maximum of $50.
Nichol notes that fines or late fees do come up frequently, and that they can become an issue for people the longer they persist.
"Fines can add up quickly, especially if you have several items out, or sometimes, life happens, and you forget the deadlines. So, yeah, it's not uncommon for people to get significant fines."
She says this event is a way for people to get back on track with those costs.
"It's just a nice way for people to get a second chance and get those fines down and start over."