The Toledo-Lucas County Public Library has extended its Read Off Your Fines program to include the main library, all 18 branches, and the bookmobile.

The program, created to allow young readers to activate youth library cards rendered inactive with overdue fees, will run through Nov. 27. For every 15 minutes of reading, library patrons up to age 17 will earn one "library dollar" to pay off a fine. Library volunteers will be on hand at designated times and sites to monitor the program.

So far, the program has attracted 399 readers who read off $1,029 worth of fines, reading 254 hours since its initial offering in April.

Library officials also have decided to offer the program quarterly throughout the year.

First Published October 22, 2004, 10:36 a.m.