(October 3, 2018)

Omaha Public Library will accept food donations during the week of October 14-21 to benefit the Alliance for a Better Omaha, a collaborative of Heart Ministry Center, Together, and Food Bank for the Heartland. Omaha Public Library cardholders can donate non-expired canned goods and other non-perishable foods in exchange for credit toward overdue fines on their library accounts.

For each food item donated, two dollars in current fines will be waived, up to a maximum of 10 items/$20. Patrons who have accrued fines are encouraged to return long overdue items and have their fines waived for a donation of a food item.

"The organizations of the Alliance for a Better Omaha are committed to programs which shorten the line and truly move the dial toward ending hunger. Every Omahan can join this mission by making a donation at their branch of Omaha Public Library. What an opportunity to promote reading and literacy and help feed a hungry child," said Alliance for a Better Omaha Director Craig Howell

Donations may be brought to the service desk at any Omaha Public Library location. A library card or photo ID must be shown at the time of donation to receive a fine waiver. Food for Fines waivers apply toward late fines only. Customers with questions about their account status and whether or not the waiver will apply should contact their local library branch.  

“Omaha Public Library is proud to play a role in helping to feed the hungry in our community,” said OPL Executive Director Laura Marlane. “Last year, 1,135 patrons donated 5,500 pounds of food during Food for Fines Week, providing more than 4,500 meals to those in need while saving money on library fines owed. That’s impactful.”

Visit omahalibrary.org for more information on these and additional events and resources at Omaha Public Library’s 12 locations.