East Brunswick Public Library Holds “Food for Fines” Program

East Brunswick Public Library (2 Jean Walling Civic Center) is offering its customers a chance to take care of their library fines and help the community at the same time. The library is launching a “Food for Fines” program From June 23-30.

For every item of non-perishable, non-expired food or personal hygiene product donated, a customer can have $3 in fines waived from their library account or a free replacement card. Customers can have a maximum of $12 waived in fines for a total of four items donated. Fees for lost or damaged materials cannot be forgiven through this program.

Acceptable food donations include boxed meals, canned food, peanut butter, cereal and pasta. Personal hygiene products, like diapers, toothpaste, soap and laundry detergent, will also be accepted. Donations cannot be expired, damaged or opened.

Food collected will be donated to the Crisis Room at Aldersgate United Methodist Church of East Brunswick. Located at 562 Ryders Lane, this food bank serves community residents in need. Information about the Crisis Room can be found online.

Library customers can also drop off additional donations for the Crisis Room at this time.

The “Food For Fines” program ties in with the library’s summer reading program. This year’s theme is “Build A Better World,” and stresses the importance of civic and community engagement. Throughout the summer, the library has several related activities including a volunteer fair on June 29.

Information about the program can be found at the library’s website.