The Crown Point Library partnered with the Lake County Animal Control Shelter for their 2016 Fine Amnesty Week. Held during the week of March 6-13, patrons were given the opportunity to return overdue materials, and by donating food supplies to the animal shelter could waive a portion of their overdue fines.
The “Food for Fines” campaign allowed patrons to donate a can of wet cat or dog food for $1 fine forgiveness (up to $20) on their card. Not only did this amnesty offer patrons an opportunity to get back on track, but it also benefited a local shelter by provided them with much needed materials.
In addition to waiving $104 worth of fines, we collected 256 cans of cat food, and 52 cans of dog food. Although only food qualified for the amnesty program, 1 bag of cat litter, 1 box of dog biscuits, 34 towels, 6 blankets and monetary donations were also collected. Patrons donated many items without needing fines waived, demonstrating our community’s generosity.