Lord Mayor 'cans' library fines for Christmas
Posted on Tuesday, 20 December, 2011
Lord Mayor Graham Quirk is giving all Brisbane residents the chance to waive their library fines by donating a can of food throughout the month of December.
Cr Schrinner said the donated cans would go to Foodbank Queensland to distribute to families in need this Christmas.
“After a challenging year, many Brisbane families will be doing it tough which is why we are offering this incentive for residents to give back to the community,” he said.
“Organisations like Foodbank do great work in the community and need all the support they can get especially this time of year.
“I encourage all local residents to take advantage of the amnesty and donate a can or two of food to their local library and clear their library fines for a fresh start to the New Year.”
A similar scheme in June 2010 collected almost 30,000 tins of food and saw Council waive almost 100,000 fines with a total value of $185,272.
“ This amnesty also prompted the return of 732 previously ‘lost’ books that were then brought back in circulation for everyone to enjoy,” Cr Schrinner said.
“It would be great to see us beat last year’s amount so whether it’s a can of baked beans or even tinned food for pets, bring it in and speak with one of our friendly staff to get your fines waived.”
Cr Schrinner said Council would waive fines on overdue items including books, magazines, DVDs or other materials and have their fines waived.
The Library Amnesty will run for the month of December and will allow library users to clear their account and have a fresh start for the National Year of Reading in 2012.
The amnesty does not include charges for lost or damaged items.
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