The final tally is in! The FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties reports that the 2013 Monmouth County Food Drive (which includes the Library's Food For Fines) collected 20,448 pounds of food during the month of April. That's more than 10 tons!

Thanks to everyone who donated to the Library's Food for Fines program!  All the food donations will go to support the more than 200 charities that the FoodBank serves. 

The Library's highly successful Food for Fines program first ran in 2006 as a way to commemorate National Library Week. In just one week in April 2011, the Library collected more than six tons of food items for local food pantries.

"The Library's Food For Fines program began seven years ago as a most useful and active way to commemorate National Library Week," said Freeholder Lillian Burry, liaison to the Library. "The Library's resounding success in 2011 served as the inspiration for last year's county-wide Food Drive to benefit the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties."

In 2012, in conjunction with other Monmouth County departments as part of National County Government Month, the Library expanded its Food for Fines program for the entire month of April. The month-long food drive last year brought in a total of more than 11 tons of food throughout the county. The Library continued its month-long Food for Fines drive again this year.

Manning, a former consultant with NASA, has always been passionate about astronomy, and wants to share the excitement! Learn about the size and scale of the universe, the stars, and other celestial wonders using hands-on activities and assorted visuals.

After the indoor presentation and tutorial, step outside to view celestial objects in the night sky, such as rings of Saturn, and craters on the Moon, weather permitting. If possible, please bring binoculars.

Library Headquarters is located at 125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan 07726. Please call 732-431-7220 x7222 for more information.