Bring late books back with food gifts and be spared fines, say libraries

Tardy borrowers in Merthyr Tydfil can face the librarians again without shame or expense this month, encouraged by forgiveness of debt in return for edible donations

Taking heed of CS Lewis’s maxim that “eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably”, libraries in Merthyr Tydfil are waiving fines on late books for borrowers who donate food instead.

The “food for fines” initiative, which gives borrowers the opportunity to see their penalties disappear if they donate food, will run through March, in conjunction with local charity Donation Station. “Why not declutter your house, pay off your library fines and contribute to a good cause all at once!” urged the Welsh town’s service, which will pass the food on for distribution to charities and local people in need.

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