MOUNT VERNON — The Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County, including its branch libraries in Fredericktown, Danville and Gambier, is sponsoring a “Food for Fines” campaign that runs until Saturday, Dec. 8. During this time, library fines may be paid with canned or boxed non-perishable food items equal to the value of the fine. Donations of food or money will be gratefully accepted.

Items that are at or near their expiration dates or in damaged or compromised containers will not be accepted. All collected food and money will be given to the Food For The Hungry drive, and donations from each community will stay in that local community.

The libraries cannot accept food in payment for lost or damaged items. In addition to food items, the library will accept humane society-approved brands of pet food.