PRINCETON, W.Va. (WVVA) – If you have books, you must return them to Princeton Public Librarymaybe this is the right time. This month you will have the opportunity to pay a reduced fine for overdue books and the opportunity to help your community at the same time.

The library is partnering with a local nonprofit, Tender Mercy Ministries, to host a donation drive, encouraging people to return their overdue books, with late fees reduced by up to ten dollars, in based on the number of items you bring in to donate. . Each item offered is worth a dollar off.

This year, we’re told the biggest need is for personal items like hygiene products, toothbrushes and dry shampoo.

Richard Brett, executive director of Tender Mercies Ministries, says since COVID funding ran out there has been an increased need in the region, with the non-profit serving around 700 households and 1,600 people per month last only.

“You never know… what situation people are in. It could be a loss of job, it could be a loss of their health… you know, they could get sick, force them to stay unemployed for a while…” Brett said.

“Most of our residents are at the poverty line, even those who are working. So we are definitely a community that may need any additional help we can receive,” says Laura Buchanan, director of the Princeton Public Library.

Buchanan says that although this year’s campaign has only just started, it has already been a success thanks to the community’s support. If you would like to make a donation, the Princeton Public Library will be hosting this collection until November 29th.

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