Did you forget to renew that book you were using for research? Loss track of time and kept your laptop beyond three hours? Whatever the reason may be, the price for returning library items pass the borrow time can leave you with a sour taste in your mouth and less money in your pockets.
Last year, FIU Libraries teamed up with the university Food Pantry and offered students a way to save money and feel good about themselves. The initiative was called Food for Fines and it allowed students to settle past fines and charges accrued with FIU Libraries by bringing in non-perishable canned or packaged food items.
Taking place the week after Spring Break, Food for Fines was such a success that FIU Libraries has decided to do it again. This year Food for Fines will be running from March 18 -29 with donation opportunities available at both the Green and Hubert Libraries. Students wanting to participate are to bring the items for donation to the circulation desk. These items must be labeled, not passed their freshness or expiration date and in cans free of rust and dent marks. Each item brought in counts as payment for one fine, including electronics with a fine of $50 dollars or less.UBorrow fines, ILL fines and replacement fees are not included.
No fines, but still want to donate? No problem! FIU Libraries will be collecting donations throughout the month of March for those who just want to support their fellow panthers.
About the Student Food Pantry
Serving students both at Modesto A. Maidique and Biscayne Bay campuses, the Food Pantry is an essential part of the FIU community. This resource ensures that students suffering through financial hardship or crisis receive the vital nourishment needed to focus on their studies and succeed in their academic endeavors. The pantries are donation based, which means that all the food distributed comes from the generosity of the staff, faculty, members of the community and student organizations.
To learn more about the Student Food Pantry, visit the Student Affairs website.