“Food for Fines” turns 10 at the Marshall Public Library

The following is a news release from the Marshall Public Library.

POCATELLO — For the tenth year, Marshall Public Library (MPL) will be accepting a different type of currency for overdue fines.

Nov. 1 marks the beginning of the library’s “Food for Fines” food drive, meaning that for every non-perishable food item they donate, patrons can have their fines forgiven by one dollar. For example, if a patron has $10 in fines, they can bring in 10 cans of food when they return the item. Each year the food collected goes to The Idaho Foodbank.

“Thank you to the community for their continued support of those in need,” said Librarian Kristy Lyon. “Over the last 10 years, we’ve gathered more than 7,900 items.”

The library asks that donations include only shelf-stable foods such as canned fruits, vegetables, meats, soups, boxed meals, pasta, peanut butter and jelly. The library cannot accept home-canned items, opened foods or foods past their expiration dates.

“Food for Fines” ends December 14.

The program does not include replacement fees for lost or damaged materials, card replacement fees or future overdue fines. If you have replacement fees for lost or damaged materials, ask library staff about a payment plan.

For more information on other programs and services offered by Marshall Public Library, visit marshallpl.org or like the library’s Facebook page at facebook.com/marshallpl.

Marshall Public Library is accessible to persons with disabilities. Program access accommodations may be provided with two (2) days’ advance notice by contacting Skyler Beebe at [email protected]; (208) 234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello.