Going to pick up a library book? Throw in some tins for foodbank

The Tauranga City Libraries have been drop off points for the Christmas Appeal over the past three weeks. Pictured is Donna Mainwaring. Photo/Andrew Warner

With the sun out and beaches filling up, it is time to pick up some books for a hot summer of reading ahead.

But before you duck into your local library, maybe you can chuck a couple of food items into your book bag.

Since the beginning of the Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal three weeks ago, Tauranga City, Papamoa, Greerton and Mount Maunganui libraries have been drop-off points for foodbank donations.

"We've had bins and bins of food donated," Tauranga City Libraries' Daniel Petersen says.

"We've had a really good response to the appeal so far, with my desk sometimes resembling a supermarket."

Petersen says library staff have been ferrying hundreds of donations to the Tauranga Community Foodbank.

"One lovely customer brought in some homemade jams that she was quite proud of," he says.

"Our libraries welcome people from all walks of life and we definitely see families who struggle at this time of year. I can't help but smile though when I see how generous our customers, and staff, are."

Petersen says people have been coming into the libraries especially to donate.

"We've had a great response to past food and toy drives and we're off to a really great start this year. I want to see all members of the community able to participate fully in society and I'm really proud to be a part of a library team who fully believe in that too."

Christmas leaves a lasting impact on peoples' lives and also leaves lasting memories, Petersen says.

"So anything we can do to help make Christmas a special occasion, we're really happy to get behind.

"Christmas is a special time of year and no matter what your situation in life, everybody deserves a great Christmas."

The Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal is now at its halfway point - there are three weeks left to contribute.

You can do that as a family, as an individual or as a workplace - every donation will go towards feeding people in need in Tauranga.

On December 12, next Tuesday, the Bay of Plenty Times and The Hits radio station will be travelling around the city in a Bayhopper bus collecting donations for the foodbank.

The "Fill the Bus" competition will be covered live on the day and there is a $500 food and beverage voucher from CBK - Craft Bar and Kitchen to award.

To be added to the bus route, send an email to scott.yeoman@bayofplentytimes.co.nz.

Happy reading, and donating, everyone.