The Knoxville Public Library will soon be offering to forgive library fines in exchange for canned goods.

The library’s Food for Fines program credits $1 per canned good donated during the program up to a maximum of $50. Librarian Roslin Thompson says the program lets the library do good while encouraging those with fines to return to the library. Thompson says some library patrons can be intimidated by unpaid fines and the program gives them an easy alternative to paying them. Food for Fines will go on from November 13-19. All food donated will go to Helping Hands. Only un-expired canned goods will be accepted.