CALS Announces Food for Fines Program Details

Little Rock, AR – The Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) has announced the details for the popular Food for Fines Program. This year, Food for Fines will take place December 10 – 16. During that time, patrons are invited to bring non-perishable food and personal hygiene products to a CALS library to offset overdue fines on their accounts. Most donated items will be kept at CALS to stock the Little Free Pantries.

For each non-perishable item brought, fines will be reduced by one dollar; patrons may bring up to twenty-five items to offset up to $25 worth of fines. CALS encourages patrons to donate to the drive even if they don’t have any fines and will apply additional “funds” to randomly selected accounts. Fines accrued for billed items or replacement fees are not eligible under the program. Items can be dropped off at any CALS library.

Patrons are asked to bring unopened, prepackaged non-perishable items. Recommended items for the holiday season include canned meats, fruits, and vegetables; boxed meals and pasta; canned gravies; mashed potato mix; and boxed stuffing. Additionally, items that can be used by unsheltered individuals, such as ready-to-eat meals and soups featuring pop tops, granola bars, and individually wrapped snacks are appreciated. Other items that are popular in the pantries include sanitary products, soaps, deodorants, diapers, and school supplies. While all non-perishable items are welcome, CALS is requesting no glass or homemade items, please.

For information about Food for Fines, contact Tameka Lee at tlee@cals.org or 501-918-3048. For information about the Little Free Pantries, contact Jessica Frazier-Emerson at jdfrazieremerson@cals.org or 501-320-5775. To make a donation directly to the Little Free Pantries, items can be purchased from their wishlist and shipped directly to them.