JOHNSON CITY (November 8, 2012) – Resolving overdue book fines at East Tennessee State University’s Sherrod Library prevents borrowers from accruing additional charges, but in the months of November and December it will also help provide food to the needy during the holidays.

For the remainder of the fall 2012 semester, the Sherrod Library is conducting a “Food for Fines” campaign that allows borrowers to donate non-perishable food items in lieu of paying late fees. The library will waive $2 in accrued fines for each item given.

All food collected will be donated to Bucky’s Food Pantry, which distributes food to students, faculty and staff who are in need.

“The fact is that there are students and employees here at ETSU who are faced with circumstances that can create hardships and make affording food a challenge,” said Patricia Van Zandt, ETSU dean of Libraries. “Our Bucky’s Food Pantry is a wonderful resource for the ETSU community, and we want to do everything we can to support this service, especially during the holiday season.”

Van Zandt acknowledged Jeri Paddock and Carolyn Bond from the library staff for their work in organizing the “Food for Fines” campaign.

Foods especially needed include canned meat and fish; evaporated milk and other canned or boxed dairy items; breads and cereals, canned fruits, vegetables, juices and soups; dried fruits; baby food; and miscellaneous items such as peanut butter, spaghetti sauce, macaroni and cheese, canned nuts, jams, jellies, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, sugar and flour.

Glass containers, home canned items, and Ramen noodles cannot be donated.

The Sherrod Library will also not accept food in lieu of charges for lost items or issue credits against future fines. Persons who wish to donate food but do not have an outstanding library fee are welcome to do so.

For more information, contact Jeri Paddock at (423) 439-8553, Carolyn Bond at 439-4234 or the ETSU Circulation Desk at 439-4303.