The College of Charleston’s Marlene and Nathan Addlestone Library will celebrate National Library Week by accepting canned food items to reduce library fines. From April 12 through 18, each can will remove one dollar in library fines. All cans collected will be given to the Lowcountry Food Bank to help with their relief efforts.

“This is our way of helping the campus and the community during tough economic times,” said James Williams, head of circulation services. “Our hope is that we’ll encourage patrons with fines to return overdue books to the library while keeping cash in their pocket. With the current state of our economy, the Food for Fines campaign allows our patrons to pay outstanding fines with donations of canned food rather than with cash.  One dollar will be waived for each can of food donated.”  During this week-long campaign, students and Friends of the Library who do not have outstanding fines are also encouraged to donate canned food.  Large collection boxes will be placed in the Circulation Department to receive canned food.  At the end of each shift, the boxes will be emptied and the canned food will be stored in a secure location.

The Library cannot accept cans that are damaged, dented or beyond their expiration date.  The cost of the food item is not considered. Fines for lost or damaged library items not included. Up to $25 may be paid with canned items.

For more information, contact James Williams at 843.953.8004.

Visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6LH9Uwp7bQ to watch the Food for Fines promotional video!