[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 25 (Monday, February 13, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E177]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING FANNIN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. DOUG COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 13, 2017

  Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
Fannin County Public Library and to commend its Food for Fines program. 
The Fannin County Public Library started this initiative a decade ago, 
and this year's program runs through the end of the month. Food for 
Fines is a smart, creative way to give back to the community. It allows 
individuals with overdue fines to donate non-perishable food items in 
lieu of a fee. For every food item donated, the library forgives one 
dollar of fines.
  All of the donations from this food drive will go to support the 
Fannin County Family Connection. The program benefits individuals in 
need and library patrons alike. Last year the library estimated that it 
collected nearly $500 worth of non-perishable food items. Over the 
years, it has become commonplace for those who donate to do so in 
excess of their fine out of support for this community cause.
  Mr. Speaker, the ongoing success of this program speaks to the 
investment that the Fannin County Public Library staff and library 
patrons have made in their community. It is a privilege to represent 
such civic-minded individuals and to recognize their service to their 
neighbors. The Fannin County Public Library's Food for Fines program is 
an example of the inclusive service I see throughout Northeast Georgia.

                          ____________________