Food for Fines revived through April 30
Patrons of the Clinton Public Library have two more days to take advantage of its Food for Fines program, which allows overdue fines to be paid with nonperishable food donations through April 30.
Bring nonperishable foods to pay off fines. One item of food is equal to $2 of overdue fines. Donated items should not be expired. The food will go to the Anderson County Community Aid Coalition.
This program is exclusive to the Clinton Public Library and does not apply to other Anderson County branches.
Director Miria Webb said it was her idea, and she has offered the program two months each year during her tenure, inspired by other systems where she worked.
“I would love for the library to be able to go fine-free totally, but unfortunately, our budget won’t support that,” she said. “Fines tend to be a barrier to service, particularly for those patrons who need us the most. This helps mitigate that, and it gives people an opportunity to give back to their fellow citizens.”
“This is a direct way to get the community to help the community,” said Ashton Preston, the library’s social media and public relations coordinator.
“My favorite part of this program is always the people who come in with a bag of donations and tell us to apply it to the account of someone who needs it,” Webb said.
The library is also continuing its giving pantry, where people can donate shelf-stable food and household items. Those items remain at the library for community use rather than going to another organization.
The Clinton Public Library is at 118 N. Hicks St. in Clinton. For more information, call 865-457-0519.
The library is closed Sundays, and open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It opens at 11:30 a.m. on the second Friday of each month due to a staff meeting.
