Members of library branches across Moree Plains, Walgett, and Brewarrina Shire Councils are now able to repay their fines with food.
The Big Sky Libraries Food for Fines initiative means in lieu of fines, members can donate a non-perishable food item that will help others in the community.
Big Sky Libraries Manager Sally Walters said Food for Fines is a way to re-engage patrons who may be reluctant to return to the library because they’re embarrassed to have accumulated overdue fines.
“This is a truly unique initiative – members can bring in their overdue books and library materials, along with non-perishable food items to any one of the five branches of Big Sky Libraries located in Brewarrina, Lighting Ridge, Moree, Mungindi and Walgett, and have their library fines waived.
“Food for Fines is a win-win for everybody”.
“The Library is always seeking creative solutions to welcome back its customers and the Food for Fines initiative gives library customers the opportunity to eliminate their fines while helping members of their community.”
Food for Fines is running during the months of October and November and the collected food items will be donated to local charities in December for the Christmas Food Hamper drive.
Members are encouraged to bring back their books along with a non-perishable food item such as dry pasta, baked beans or coffee and get their fines cleared away so they can rediscover the joy being a library member, with full access again to e-books and e-magazines, DVD, audio and CD loans, and of course, books.
Only overdue fines are eligible for the program and fees associated with lost or damaged items will not be waived.
Food for Fines has the potential to reduce current member’s charges and also bring inactive members back to the Library that may feel excluded due to their inability to pay their fines.
