Here’s how area libraries are helping their neighbors this December

Fargo, West Fargo and Moorhead public libraries are all pitching in to lend their neighbors a hand through various drives for clothing and food

Libraries in Fargo, West Fargo and Moorhead are all doing their part this winter to help their neighbors in need.

As temperatures have plummeted in the region, all three Fargo Public Library locations have set up their mitten trees to help our neighbors most vulnerable to the winter freeze.

According to a city of Fargo press release, all three locations are accepting donations of new or very gently used and cleaned cold weather gear such as mittens, gloves, hats, scarves and socks. Handmade and purchased items are also welcome.

All donated items will be distributed to community members in need of warm clothing this winter. For more information about the mitten trees, contact the Main Library Circulation Desk at 701-241-1472.

The West Fargo Public Library has also started its annual Mitten Tree Drive to collect winter gear for West Fargo kids in need. From Dec. 1 through Jan. 10, donors can drop off new or like-new child-sized mittens, gloves, sweatpants, boots, underwear, coats and other winter gear at both West Fargo Public Library locations. Handmade items are also welcome.

The items will be donated to West Fargo Public School District students in need.

The mitten tree can be found on the first floor of the main West Fargo Public Library location near the self-checkout machine. Donors can hang their items on the tree or drop them off at the library service desk. Donations can also be brought to the service desk of the West Fargo Public Library’s Satellite Branch at West Fargo City Hall during open hours.  

Over at the Moorhead Public Library, if you’ve been a little forgetful about getting your books back on time, December is the month to make things right.

The Lake Agassiz Regional Library's “Food for Fines” program is back regionwide through December. The popular library amnesty initiative provides customers with a simple, meaningful way to clear late fees while giving back to their communities.

During the entire month, patrons may bring their overdue items along with non-perishable and unexpired food items to any LARL location. For each donated item, $2 in late fees will be waived from their account.

All donations collected through the program will be distributed to local food shelves and community organizations throughout the LARL service area. The program applies to late fees only and does not cover lost or damaged materials.