Mid-Continent Public Library’s ‘Food for Fines’ Program Returns to Excelsior Springs for 10th Year

Excelsior Springs, MO—Mid-Continent Public Library (MCPL) is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its ‘Food for Fines’ program, running from September 9 to 15, 2024. The initiative allows patrons to clear their fines and fees by donating nonperishable food items, which will be distributed to local food pantries, including the Good Samaritan Center of Excelsior Springs.

“For more than a decade, we’ve been stocking local food pantries with our Food for Fines program, and that’s something we’re very proud of,” said Stephen Chalmers, Branch Manager of MCPL’s Excelsior Springs location. “It’s tremendously gratifying to see the outpouring of generosity within our communities and also to wipe so many customer accounts clean after they’ve had a busy summer of checking out items!”

Each nonperishable food item donated will count as $1.50 toward a customer’s fines and fees, up to a maximum of $30. The library encourages donations of items such as boxed meals, canned food, peanut butter, cereal, and pasta, but the food must be unopened, undamaged, and not expired. Items in glass, plastic, or cardboard drink containers will not be accepted.

MCPL offers the Food for Fines program twice a year: once in the spring to promote active participation in the summer reading program and again in the fall to alleviate any barriers students may face as they return to school and seek access to library resources. Patrons who have no fines are still encouraged to donate to support the local food pantry.

For more information, visit mymcpl.org/FoodForFines.