Food for fines

This month, the Penn Libraries are running Food for Fines, an annual food drive and fine amnesty program that is now in its fourth year. Patrons can donate non-perishable goods and help knock some money off of any overdue book fines. For each food item donated, $1 will be credited toward a patron’s account, up to a maximum of $20. Credit cannot be applied to lost book replacement fees.

Last year, patrons generously donated enough food to provide 430 meals to individuals across Philadelphia. All food donations benefit Philabundance.

Food donations will be collected at the Van Pelt Circulation Desk. Items should be non-perishable and packaged in boxes, cans or plastic bottles. The library cannot accept items in glass containers or past their expiration date. Please consider donating the following high-priority items: canned/shelf-stable tuna, macaroni and cheese, canned pasta, canned beef stew, canned chili, plastic containers of creamy peanut butter, plastic containers of jelly, canned green beans, canned corn, canned fruit, and breakfast  cereal or hot cereal. Participants do not have to have library fines to donate.

For more information, email library@pobox.upenn.edu or call 215-898-7566.