Phoenix Public Library, Phoenix, AZ. -- March 25, 2009 -- Library customers can pay overdue fines and help restock the pantries of Valley food banks during Phoenix Public Library's annual "Food for Fines," April 13 through 25.

During "Food for Fines," 50 cents will be deducted from overdue fines for each non-perishable food item donated at any of the city's 15 libraries. A maximum of $50 can be paid with donated food. Homemade food or food in lieu of lost or damaged books cannot be accepted.

Donated food will be distributed to St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance and Desert Mission Food Bank. The program collects more than 24,000 pounds of food annually.

Phoenix Public Library is a system of 14 branch libraries and the Burton Barr Central Library. For more information, call 602-262-4636 or visit phoenixpubliclibrary.org.