From July 10th through July 24th, Hayward Public Library is offering a one-time library amnesty program, “Food for Fines,” during which Library customers may bring in donations of food to help the hungry while clearing some of their overdue fines.  During this amnesty program, each food item donated to the library can be used to “pay” for $1 in library overdue fines, up to a maximum of $25 cleared per card.  All donated food will be given to the Alameda County Community Food Bank.

A valid Hayward Public Library card must be presented at the time of the donation.  Donations will be accepted in person during normal Library operating hours.  Food donations will apply towards overdue fines; they will not apply towards lost or damaged item fees, replacement library card fees, or interlibrary loan (LINK+) fees.

The most needed food items are:

•    Canned Fruit and Vegetables
•    Powdered Milk
•    Tomato Sauce
•    Beans
•    Rice
•    Low-Sugar Cereal and Oatmeal
•    Canned soup (low salt)
•    Pasta
•    Peanut Butter
•    Canned Meats and Fish
•    Powdered Milk
•    Healthy Snacks (Granola Bars, Raisins, Pretzels, etc)

Donated food items must be unopened and sealed in original packaging.  Homemade items, perishable items, opened or repackaged items, or items packaged in glass cannot be accepted.

Help Hayward Public Library and Alameda County Community Food Bank wipe out hunger (and your library overdue fines) by participating in Food for Fines.  For more information visit the library’s webpage http://library.hayward-ca.gov, or call 510-293-8685.