The El Paso Library system has announced a food for fines swap to encourage the return of overdue books, resolve penalties and support families needing groceries.
The El Paso Public Library on Friday began an amnesty program that runs through Jan. 18.
Anyone with overdue library books can return the items without penalty. Fines won't be charged during the amnesty period as long as the books are returned in good condition.
The food part of the project targets El Paso library patrons who do not have outstanding materials but do have pending fines. Those fines can be adjusted down $1 for every can of food or non-perishable item donated, up to $5 per account.
The items will be donated to food pantries.
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