Trade Fines for Food at County Libraries

In celebration of National Library Week, all Santa Cruz Public Libraries, including the Capitola branch, will forgive late fee scofflaws April 8-14.

During the week, the library will forgive $1 in overdue fines for each non-perishable food item donated, up to $20. Fines for lost or damaged materials will not be waived.

All donations will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank, the non-profit organization providing food and basic necessities to people in Santa Cruz County, half of whom are children.

"SCPL is looking forward to feeding the body as well as the mind with our Food for Fines food drive. Reducing library fines while helping to feed the hungry in our county is a win-win for the whole community. We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate National Library Week," said Janis O’Driscoll, manager of programs and partnerships.

Some suggestions of food items to be donated include: canned meat, canned fish, canned fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, beans, pasta, rice, cereal and fruit juice.

All branches will be accepting donations, and even if you don’t have fines, you can bring a donation to put in the barrel or take an envelope to mail your cash donation.