BRIMBANK library borrowers are being offered a novel way to ease guilt over unreturned books and the fear of being fined.
From tomorrow until February 15, members can return overdue items and clear fines through an amnesty and 'Food for Fines' program.
Under the amnesty, fines on overdue library items returned through library chutes in good condition will be waived.
The Food for Fines program offers members the chance to donate non-perishable food to clear any other fines already owed.
Council chairman Peter Lewinsky says the program is aimed at drawing users back to the libraries.
"We want people to come back to the library and start borrowing again. Council is hoping also to get back as many items as possible so that other customers can borrow them."
UnitingCare Sunshine Mission will redistribute the food to Brimbank families in need.
Donations should be tinned or packet food with a use-by date after June.
Each item donated will wipe off up to $10 in fines.
From February 16, users with fines of $15 or more will not be able to book or use library PCs, access wireless internet or play video games.
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