This week has been National Library Week, and the Perry Public Library has gotten into the spirit.

Throughout the week, they’ve been running the “Food for Fines” amnesty program, where patrons can pay their library fees by donating non-perishable food items or toiletries. Deputy Library Director Misty VonBehren says all the items are going to the Perry Food Pantry, and they’ve collected several boxes each day. The library has also celebrated this week by honoring library workers on Tuesday and their outreach programs on Wednesday. Additionally, there’s been cookies provided to visitors each day.

VonBehren says it’s been a great week, and she feels it’s important to show everyone all that libraries have to offer. “I think it just gives an opportunity to the public to recognize what libraries do for their communities. And a way for us to kind of celebrate what we do. We go by everyday, and our main mission is to help the community, help people. And this is just a chance for us to kind of celebrate what we do all year long.”

The library will continue accepting “Food for Fines” and offering cookies through tomorrow. VonBehren reminds people that fees for lost or damaged materials are not eligible for the amnesty program.