The Briggs Lawrence County Public Library has officially started its Christmas "mitten tree" project this year.

Tuesday, December 04, 2001

The Briggs Lawrence County Public Library has officially started its Christmas "mitten tree" project this year.

Christmas trees at each library branch serve as a collection point for gloves, mittens, scarves, hats and others items – all of which will be donated to the City Mission Church’s holiday giving programs.

Patrons, or anybody wanting to donate, can bring in mittens or gloves and hang them on the trees, said Susan Beaver, adult services librarian at Ironton’s main branch.

"We’re really hoping to make a difference in children’s lives here at the holidays," Ms. Beaver said.

The library also has a food barrel, serving as a collection point for canned food that will be donated to food pantries, she said.

For those who donate gloves or food, and want to bring back their overdue books at the same time, the library is offering a "fine free" program.

Like the branches have done in the past, overdue fines are waived (up to $5 each time) when donations are made.

The mitten tree program started Dec. 1 and will continue throughout the holiday season, and is a welcome help for the needy, said the Rev. Jim Cremeans of Ironton City Mission.

"The library has done this for us for several years," Rev. Cremeans said. "It’s really a big help."

The project usually raises more than 100 gloves each year. The gloves are placed with toys for Christmas giveaways at the mission.

"It helps keep the kids fingers warm," he said.

Also, donations of toys are slowing down a little bit this year, likely because of the slowing economy, Rev. Cremeans said.

For more information about the mitten tree, and how to donate, contact the library at 740-532-1124. For information on the City Mission and donating food or toys for the holidays, call 740-532-5041.