The Chadron Public Library kicks off a 2-week amnesty period Saturday for fines more than a year old.

Library Director Rosella Tesch asks only that individuals bring in 2 non-perishable, non-expired food items for distribution to local food pantries for every $5 owed in fines.

Tesch says the idea is to clear old fines off the books while helping with the Chadron community’s Christmas celebration.

“We decided to do it to be part of Chadron’s Caring and Sharing Christmas, and said that with many fines not collected this might be a way to make everyone happy…a win and win situation. ”

Tesch is afraid that some patrons of the library have stopped coming because they have outstanding fines, so she hopes the food donation amnesty program gets them coming in again.

The Chadron Public Library fine amnesty program runs through Saturday December 15th.