Annual Food for Fees drive helps patrons and supports local nonprofits

SANTA BARBARA, CA – November 2, 2026 From November 2 through December 24, Santa Barbara Public Library (SBPL) invites community members to participate in Food for Fees, an annual food drive that helps patrons reconnect with library services while supporting local families and individuals during the winter holiday season. Patrons can receive forgiveness for eligible library fees by donating non-perishable food items at any SBPL location. All donations will benefit Unity Shoppe, People’s Pantry, and FARO Center. How it Works: For every five food items donated patrons can receive fee forgiveness for one lost or damaged library item valued at up to $35.More food items = more fee forgiveness.Individual food items can receive up to $5 fee forgiveness for miscellaneous library fees. *** fee forgiveness does not apply to items in the Library of Things Collection. Accepted Items: Non-perishable, unopened, undamaged food only.Food in cans, sealed boxes, or plastic containers