From now through the holidays, Bates students, faculty and staff are being asked to bring back overdue books and videos to the college's George and Helen Ladd Library and, instead of paying fines, donate food for the needy. All donations will be delivered to the Good Shepherd Food Pantry.

The food pantry, located on Lisbon Street, provides food and supplies to many families and agencies in Lewiston and Auburn. Even if no books or videos are overdue, members of the college and local communities are encouraged to contribute food or supplies at Ladd Library. The campaign started Nov. 1 and continues through Dec. 31. According to Assistant College Librarian Julie Retelle, the library usually has "boxes and boxes" of donations to the food pantry by the end of the semester, in mid-December.

The library asks that donations be non-perishable food or "necessity" items. Here are suggested items to donate: baby food and diapers (there is an extreme need for baby items!); canned tuna; peanut butter; pasta and pasta sauce or canned spaghetti and ravioli; personal care items (soap, shampoo, etc.); and cleaning supplies.