A unique program designed by the Provincial Library Service will help put more food products in the hands of food banks across the Island. Launched on April 1, 2002, the Food for Fees Program is designed to help local food banks by collecting nonperishable food items in lieu of outstanding library fees. The program continues until May 31, 2002.
For each item donated, overdue book fees will be reduced by $2.00 and all donations will go to local community food banks. Individuals may also donate food items if they have no fees to pay, but would like to help. Suggested food items include canned goods, powdered milk, baby formula and dried pasta or rice.
"The Food for Fees Program presents an excellent opportunity to give back to the community while at the same time encouraging literacy in Prince Edward Island," says Gail Shea, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs and Minister responsible for the Provincial Library Service.
All Islanders are encouraged to participate in the Food for Fees Program by dropping off nonperishable food to local libraries. Last year, only 10 per cent of Islanders with library fees took advantage of the program.
"It is our hope that participation in this program will increase this year as people become aware of the program and want to become more involved," says Minister Shea. "This program provides an additional avenue for Islanders to make donations to local food banks and I encourage everyone to get involved."
In the future, library users should avoid late fee charges by returning library materials on time or by renewing the materials before the due date. Unless there is a request on the materials from another user, there are three ways to renew library materials. Staff will renew materials over the phone, books may be renewed at the library or by visiting the library Web site at www.library.pe.ca. At the Web site, follow the link to Abbycat, go to Review Patron Record, enter your library card PIN numbers, and select the items to be renewed.