Public Library Accepts “Food for Fines” During February
Oskaloosa Library Director Wanda Gardner shows off one of the many signs reminding library patrons that during the month of February, you can bring in 1 food item in exchange for 2 dollars worth of library fines.
Oskaloosa, Iowa – It’s time to track down those overdue library materials and return them this month. Starting Monday, February 6, you can pay your old or current library overdue fines with food or personal care items that will be donated to the Ecumenical Cupboard.
According to Library Director Wanda Gardner, accepting food rather than cash is an opportunity many library users appreciate. “After the holidays, many people have extra cans or boxes of food in the cupboard, or even toiletry items they received as gifts. Each item brought to the library will be credited as $2 toward overdue fines.”
For the Ecumenical Cupboard, donations are always welcome. February marks their two-year anniversary in their current location, and the Cupboard’s importance to the community continues to grow. In the current economy many families struggle not only with a shortage of food, but also personal hygiene products. Bars of soap, toothpaste, tooth brushes, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, shampoo and deodorant are all welcomed by the Cupboard.
Food for overdue fines can be turned in at the circulation desk on the library’s lower level. The library will also gladly accept other food and care product donations that will go to the Ecumenical Cupboard. The library is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10-8; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10-5.
