The finer things

By Meg Kennedy

Pesky library fees can easily add up, but an annual drive by Moorabool Libraries aims to help make a difference in the giving season.

Moorabool Shire Library Services is again partnering with Darley Neighbourhood House and The Neighbours Place in Bacchus Marsh as part of the annual ‘Food For Fines’ donation drive.

Moorabool Libraries will be accepting donations of food and/or personal hygiene items for those in need in the community, with every item donated wiping $2 off outstanding library fees.

Moorabool Shire Library Programs Officer Kristie Seketa said the Food For Fines program is “a fantastic initiative with a great response from the community.”

Donations have expanded from 100 items donated in 2015 to 600 last year.

“People are appreciative of the ability to donate to a social and worthy cause, and we have had a lot of positive feedback in our conversations with customers during this time,” she said.

“We’re looking at running the same initiative as a ‘Christmas in July’ next year, to provide another opportunity to waive fines and allow people to donate to the cause mid-year.”

Darley Neighbourhood House Manager Renae Knight said the initiative, which helps the House’s contribution to Share the Dignity’s ‘It’s in the Bag’ drive, is “really wonderful.”

“We might play a small role, but it’s really lovely for us to do our bit for the community,” she said.

The Food For Fines initiative will run until Saturday, December 7.

Donations can be dropped off at Ballan Library, Lerderderg Library and the Rural Library Van.

For more information on Library Services, contact Moorabool Shire Council on 5366 7100.