One gift, one smile

The University Library is offering “Toys for Fines,” a six-week event in which students can donate toys in order to eliminate fees for their past due books.

“It is such a great feeling, and I really would like to see students be a part of this,” said Associate University Librarian Annabel Treviño. Treviño and other staff members have donated toys for the program.

The event started with legacy institution UT Brownsville in 2013.

“The toys have been donated to the Good Neighbor Settlement House,” Treviño said.

Continuing tradition, this year the toys will go to the nonprofit multiservice agency again.

“They are going back to the community, for the children that are in most need,” she said.

All toys have to be unwrapped and new. Stuffed animals and toys representing firearms or weapons will not be accepted.

The number of toys required for donation will depend on the amount owed.

Students who owe between $1.50 and $10, may donate four toys; $10.01-$20, six toys; $20.01-$30, eight toys; $30.01-$50, 10 toys.

“UTRGV is helping students in clearing out those fines and giving back to the community,” Treviño said. “We personally deliver the toys.”

Liliana Sanchez, access services librarian, also believes this is a great opportunity for students to help the community and clear the fines.

“Not only the children are happy, the staff members are very grateful that the university is reaching out to them and helping the community,” Sanchez said.

Communication junior Bianca Rocha, a library student assistant, believes that this is the perfect time to donate toys.

“The holidays are coming up and it is more about giving out,” Rocha said. “The little kids are looking forward to these kind of days. Anything small is going to make them the happiest kids ever. Even if students don’t have a fine, they can come and spread love by giving toys to the community.”

Jessica Perez, a collections and archives student assistant, said, “When you donate a toy, you donate a smile.”

“Toys for Fines” will end Dec. 19.

For more information about volunteering or donating, visit the front desk at the library on all three campuses.