Santa Barbara Public Library Launches Annual ‘Food for Fees’ Drive
The Santa Barbara Public Library is holding its annual "Food for Fees" drive from November 2 to December 24, allowing patrons to have eligible library fees forgiven by donating non-perishable food items at any SBPL location. The collected food will…

Santa Barbara Santa Maria San Luis Obispo, CA, November 2, 2026 — The Santa Barbara Public Library (SBPL) has announced its annual “Food for Fees” drive, a program designed to help patrons clear eligible library fees while simultaneously supporting local charitable organizations. The initiative is set to run from November 2 through December 24.
During this period, library patrons have the opportunity to have their eligible fees forgiven by making donations of non-perishable food items. These donations can be made at any Santa Barbara Public Library location.
The food collected through the “Food for Fees” drive will be distributed to several local charities. Beneficiaries include the Unity Shoppe, the People’s Pantry, and the FARO Center, all of which provide essential services to the community.
This annual event serves as a dual-purpose effort, aiming to assist library users in resolving outstanding fines and to provide crucial support for food banks and aid organizations within Santa Barbara.
Story summarized from the original created by Alma Trejo-Rodriguez for city of Santa Barbara on www.noozhawk.com, see more information here.
