Bruce County Public Library is bringing back its annual Food for Fines program for its seventh year to each of its 17 branches in Bruce County.

From November 28 to December 11, patrons can clear some overdue fines and help support local food banks simultaneously! Every donated non-perishable, unexpired food item will clear $5.00 from your library fines, an increase from the $2.00 seen in previous years.

Another significant change to the Foods for Fines program is the removal of the $10 maximum clearance seen in previous years. This year saw an increase in grocery costs, and BCPL wanted to adjust accordingly. Those without fines are welcome to donate as well.  

Bruce County Public Library started this successful program in 2015 and it has continued to be one of our most valued programs. In 2021 BCPL received over 180 donations to local food banks while clearing $135 in fines. This year, we hope to surpass that record, as we have seen an increase in demand on food banks. 

Library director Brooke McLean is hopeful that the Food for Fines program will continue to affect the communities it serves positively.

"By removing the cap on how much in fines a patron can clear, our main goal is to get more donations to the food banks and help Bruce County residents this holiday season," she said.

To learn more about how you can participate in Food for Fines, you can contact your local Library Branch or visit the Bruce County Public Library website.

source: media release, Bruce County Public Library