Worried about your library fines mounting up? 

Local libraries are bringing back an easy way to clear outstanding fines and support the community at the same time.

For the month of December the Wanaka and Hawea Libraries - and others around the district - will happily shelve overdue fines in exchange for non-perishable food items, children’s books, toiletries and vouchers.

Each donated item waives five dollars and goods received in the Upper Clutha go to Food for Love.

Food for Love is an organisation made up of a group of volunteers which provides home-cooked meals to families or individuals that need a little extra help.

“This year Food for Love is proud to be a [recipient] of these goods in Wanaka and we will find a good way to use and distribute [them] to those who need some extra help,” Food for Love said in a statement.

Over the hill, donations will go to the Wakatipu Happiness House. 

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) district librarian Sue Gwilliam said the ‘shelve your fines’ scheme has been running for the past nine years. 

It benefits both library users and the wider community, she said.

“We’ve had great uptake on this amnesty in the past and now welcome a range of items, including treats and gifts, which are donated to fabulous local charities who support our communities,” Sue said.

“Why not make a donation next time you drop by to pick up your summer reading picks? It’s a win/win!”

Donations are only eligible to wipe library overdue fines, not standard charges or missing, lost or damaged items. 

The ‘shelve your fines’ initiative will run through to the end of December.

For more information on QLDC libraries and the ‘shelve your fines’ scheme click here.

PHOTO: Supplied