September is JCLC's Food for Fines and National Library Card Sign-Up Month

 

Jefferson County, Ala. – The Public Libraries in Jefferson County will participate in the 7th annual “Food for Fines,” a canned food drive held each September that allows patrons to pay off up to $10 toward their library fines by donating canned or boxed foods. 

 One dollar in fines will be waived for each item of food donated at any of the 40 JCLC members, which include the Birmingham Public Library's 18 locations . The waived fees apply to fines only. The food drive is open to anyone, even if they do not have overdue materials. Expiration dates on food must be visible on all donated food items.

Librarians in Jefferson County hope this campaign will be the boost several nonprofit food groups need as they approach the fall holidays. The libraries plan to donate goods to Central Food Bank of Central Alabama, Magic City Harvest and more. Individual libraries may also decide to donate items to a local church or charity of their choice.

21,135 cans/boxed items were collected for area food banks in 2019, the most recent year of the Food for Fines campaign.

“Food for Fines” is held in conjunction with the annual “National Library Card Signup Month." 

In September, cardholders can trade in their old wallet card for a keychain library card during the signup campaign. The replacement card will be free. For more information, go to www.PublicLibrariesInJC.org 

 Background on Food For Fines September 2021

Through the month of September, all public libraries in Jefferson County will be participating in a food drive that helps support local charities by replenishing food pantries in anticipation of the coming holidays. 

How does it work?

 $1.00 in fines will be waived for each food item donated in September for up to $10.00 per library card holder. 

When and where can donations be made? 

Donations will be accepted at the circulation desks of all 40 Jefferson County libraries (including all Birmingham Public Library locations) during September 2021. 

Visit the Public Libraries in Jefferson County's website for more information and for a list of suggested food items to donate.

Food for Fines is held in conjunction with the annual National Library Card Sign-Up Month. Since 1987, Library Card Sign-Up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. Libraries work to remind parents and youth that signing up for a library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning. 

There is no charge for residents to apply for a card, or to replace a damaged or lost library card.  Get more information about applying for a library card by clicking on the BPL website here.

Throughout the school year, public librarians and library staff will assist parents and caregivers with saving hundreds of dollars on educational resources and services for students. From free access to STEM programs/activities, educational apps, in-person and virtual homework help, technology workshops, to the expertise of librarians, a library card is one of the most cost effective back-to-school supplies available!