By Victoria Stone-Meadows
THE inaugural Casey Cardinia Library Corporation’s (CCLC) ‘Forgiving Tree’ initiative delivered a boon for local charities in the lead up to Christmas.
In its first year ever, the initiative of the library to forgive book fines and other fees in exchange for a donation to the libraries’ ‘Forgiving Tree’ raised More than $15,000 for local charities.
Each of the libraries under the CCLC banner had a chosen local charity they partnered with to pass on the community’s donations so those less fortunate could enjoy a bountiful Christmas.
Cranbourne Library parented with the Cranbourne Information and Support Service (CISS) who provide services and referrals to the Cranbourne community.
Leanne Petrides from CISS said she was overwhelmed with the support from the library and the community and was amazed to still be receiving donations into January.
The success of the program wasn’t the only surprise as the donations made to local charities through the Forgiving Tree were more than the fines and fees that were forgiven.
Furthermore, almost $18,000 worth of lost items were returned and just over $8000 worth of fines and fees were paid back rather than forgiven for a donation.
For the month of December, Forgiving Trees were erected in Cranbourne, Doveton, Emerald, Endeavour Hills, Hampton Park, Narre Warren, and Pakenham libraries as well as the Cardinia Mobile Library Service.
CEO Casey Cardinia Libraries Chris Buckingham said while the success of the initiative was a surprise, he knew the community would come together for such a program.
“We knew that setting up the Forgiving Trees in our libraries was the right thing to do,” he said.
“The heart-warming response from our wonderfully diverse community was inspiring.”
The fervour with which the community embraced the program has delighted both library and charity staff and made a difference to many families in the Casey and Cardinia regions.
“We are very grateful to all the people and partners who gave so much throughout December,” he said.
“Together we have made a positive difference in the lives of hundreds of local families at this special time of year.”
