Beginning Monday, Nov. 9, WKU Libraries will accept food donations for a local food pantry in exchange for overdue library fines. “For every food item brought to Cravens 4th floor, we will forgive $1 of the student’s fines up to $10,” said Paula Bowles, Library Public Services Circulation Assistant. “We look at it as a win-win for both the student and those folks in need of assistance at this time of the year.”
According to Sue Bryant, Pantry Coordinator at The Presbyterian Church, people needing food is on the rise. “With the challenging economy, we’ve definitely seen a steady increase for individuals needing food,” said Bryant. “Some months we get as many as 100 people coming in for food for their families so any donations we receive from the community are always greatly appreciated.”
According to Bryant, the best types of food to bring in are canned fruits or vegetables, hearty soups like chili or beef stew, peanut butter, bagged beans, crackers, pastas and even microwavable foods. Refrigerated foods are not allowed since all the items are stored in a room temperature pantry.
Bowles hopes to make this an annual affair for WKU Libraries and encourages everyone to bring in food to donate, whether they have a fine or not. “It’s tough right now for many families. We are happy to help relieve a little pressure off students and families in need.”
Food may be taken to any WKU library location. However, to have fees forgiven, food must be brought to the 4th floor of Cravens Library. The food drive will run from Nov. 9-20.
Contact: Paula Bowles, 270- 745-6167; or Jennifer Wilson, 270-745-6977.
