PRINCETON, W. Va. -If you have any books you need to return to the Princeton Public Library, now may be a good time. This month, you’ll have the chance to pay a reduced fine for overdue books and an opportunity to help your community at the same time.
The library is partnering with a local nonprofit, “Tender Mercy Ministries” to hold a donation drive, encouraging people to return their overdue books, with the late-fee reduced by up to ten dollars, depending on the number of items you bring to donate. Each item given equals one-dollar off.
This year, we’re told a major need is for personal items like hygiene products, toothbrushes, and dry shampoo.
Richard Brett, the executive director of Tender Mercies Ministries, says, ever since COVID funding ran out, there’s been an increased need in the area, with the nonprofit serving around 700 homes and 1,600 people last month alone.
“You never know… what situation people are in. Could be a loss of a job, could be a loss of their health… you know, they may fall ill, cause them to be out of work for quite some time…” says Brett.
“Most of our residents are in the poverty line, even those that are working, so we are definitely a community that can use any extra help that we can receive,” says Laura Buchanan, director of the Princeton Public Library.
Buchanan says, while this year’s drive has just gotten started, it’s already been a success with community support. If you would like to donate, the Princeton Public Library will be holding this drive until November 29th.
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