RICHMOND, Va. – Borrowing books from the library is blissfully free, until forgotten items become a roadblock of late fees that keep you from checking out all the books (and movies! and computers! and musical instruments!) — until your account is paid and in good graces again.

Now you have the chance to think of September as a month to start fresh, and to help your local food bank while doing so.

With September being “Library Card Sign-up” month, as well as “Hunger Action ”month, the Richmond Public Libraries have coordinated with FeedMore to waive late fees in lieu of can food donations.

“We are thrilled to partner again this year with the Richmond Public Libraries on their Food for Fines Drive,” said Christy Dalton, Community Events Manager at FeedMore. “This is an important time for us to receive non-perishable donations as our supplies are lower following the summer months.”

“Additionally, as September is Hunger Action Month, this is a great opportunity to raise awareness throughout our community about the hunger issue and positively impact our neighbors in need,” Dalton added.

All someone has to do is donate unexpired, non-perishable food items to the FeedMore collection boxes inside libraries and fines up to $10 will be forgiven. Think at least one can per $1.

That allows people who have lost their cards to get free replacement cards for the months of Sept., if the account is in good standing.

The Richmond libraries also hosted this last year. Chesterfield and Henrico libraries are not participating.