By Samantha Bolden | The Selma Times-Journal

The Selma Dallas County Public Library hopes to see a whole host of new patrons during National Library Card Signup Month in September.

During the month, the library will also give those with fines the chance to clear those up while helping out a good cause.

Throughout the month of September, the library will allow patrons to wipe clean fines of any amount by bringing in a canned or non-perishable food item.

Boxes will be set up throughout the library, where people can drop off their canned goods. Once they donate, they are asked to speak to one of the librarians to clear the outstanding balances.

“What we’re trying to teach people is that in order for us to clear your fines, we want you to do something for the greater good,” said Becky Nichols, director of the Selma Dallas County Public Library.

All canned goods will be passed on to the Christian Outreach Alliance.

“Let your heart determine how much you want to bring,” Nichols said.

Nichols said the annual drive provides a win-win situation for everyone involved.

“You win because you don’t have to pay any money and you get your library card privileges back,” Nichols said. “The library wins because we get our readers back, and the food bank wins because they get food for the upcoming holidays. Everyone wins.”

Nichols said that next month the library will issue out 600 library cards to first graders in the city and county schools.

In addition to the food drive, the library will also restart its Lunch at the Library beginning Sept. 15.

Julian McPhillips is the guest author who will talk about his book, “Civil Rights in My Bones.”

The program will begin at 12:30 p.m. Attendance costs $8, and anyone interested in attending can make a reservation in person or by calling the library at (334) 874-1725.

For more information about the library, contact Nichols at (334) 874-1732.