Anyone who has been putting off returning an overdue book, DVD or other item borrowed from the Carson City Library can bring it back for free and help fellow residents most in need during the upcoming holiday season.
The library this week began its annual Food for Fines program, which helps support the efforts of the Ron Wood Family Resource Center. People who donate nonperishable foods will have their overdue fines waived.
"It's very popular," said Andrea Moore, the library's community relations coordinator. "And the food we collect goes to local families."
Sought for families in need are canned goods, pasta, rice, juice, box cereals and baby foods not in glass containers.
What won't be accepted: Anything in glass; items in rusted, unlabeled cans; items past their expiration dates; anything that has been opened or in dented and damaged containers; candy, soda, chips and perishables; foods from bins sold unpackaged such as beans or nuts; samples and complimentary items. And, no liquor, Moore said.
Fees for lost or damaged items borrowed from the library aren't part of this deal. People who are late returning things to the library are charged a maximum fee of $5. If they lose the item or it's damaged then the person has to pay for a replacement, according to library borrowing rules.
Food for Fines will continue through Nov. 22, the day before Thanksgiving.
"We're thankful we've partnered with the library," said Joyce Buckingham, executive director of the resource center. "It's a tremendous help."
The center offers a variety of support programs to residents who need help, such as its food bank, which receives increased demand during the holidays, Buckingham said.
The library is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It's closed Sunday.
Amnesty for books
Call the Carson City Library at 887-2244 for details about its Food for Fines program.
• Contact reporter Terri Harber at tharber @nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111, ext. 215.