BATH

Patten Free Library once again offers its Food for Fines program this year running from Tuesday, Nov. 27 through Saturday, Dec. 8.

For two weeks, Patten Free Library will allow patrons to “pay” their overdue fines by bringing in a donation for the Bath Area Food Bank. For each packaged item turned in at the library, $1 in fines will be removed from the library account.

Library staff will deliver the donated items to the food bank. Please note: the library still requires payment for lost or damaged items.

This program provides the opportunity to let a few dollars do triple-duty: Clear up overdue library fines, save a few dollars for holiday gifts, and help our neighbors who rely on the services of the food bank.

Recurring needs at the food bank include their staple items: canned vegetables, baked beans, meat and tuna; canned or dry fruit, juice, soup, mac and cheese, spaghetti sauce, peanut butter, pasta, toilet paper, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Items that are damaged, contained in glass, or have an expired date will not be accepted.

Patten Free Library, located at 33 Summer Street, is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 10 to 5 on Thursdays and Fridays, and 10 to 1 Saturdays.

The Bath Food Pantry is located at the United Church of Christ, 150 Congress Ave., and is open 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and 2 to 4 on Fridays.