The 2017 six-week campaign will begin on March 20th and run through April 28th 

Got a slew of library fines? You may be able to eliminate some of those costs and do some good at the same time.

The Huntington Woods is participating in a program entitled “Food for Fines” starting March 20th. The idea is to allow fines to be waived if patrons come in with non-perishable food to donate for those in need.

Starting March 20 through April 28, Huntington Woods patrons can bring in donated items. Once they bring in items the library will clear overdue fines. The library cannot accept food donations for lost items.

The program is one done by several groups of libraries in the metro Detroit area, though specific terms or fine forgiveness vary by community. The food donated will head to Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeast Michigan once collected, where it will go to help those in need. Last year, the program collected more than 8,400 lbs. of food for the food bank, according to a letter from The Library Network.

It’s an important program, because it helps a local group with donations at a time of year when charitable giving tends to be done at a lower rate.