Want to write off those overwhelming late fees and fines at the Clark County Public Library?

Just bring some winter gear to the library to donate to Operation Happiness, and each item will be credited to the donor’s account.

Library Director Julie Maruskin said the library usually has a fall fine-forgiveness drive to benefit a local charity that helps people. In past years, beneficiaries have been the Beacon of Hope Emergency Shelter and C.C.’s Closet, she said.

This year, everything received will go to Operation Happiness’ Day of Giving Dec. 20, where hundreds of families will receive food, winter coats and presents ahead of Christmas.

The drive started Wednesday and library patrons responded quickly.

“We already have coats,” Maruskin said Thursday. “On the first day it was open, we had eight winter coats brought in.”

The library is offering the following exchange rate for donated items:

— one can of unexpired labeled food = $2 in fines

— one new or gently-used winter hat = $5 in fines

— one pair of new or gently-used gloves or mittens = $5 in fines

— one new or gently-used winter scarf = $5 in fines

— one new or gently-used winter coat = $20 in fines. Coats can not be dirty or torn, and all zippers, snaps and buttons must work.

The library, 370 S. Burns Ave., is also accepting donations of the above items from those without fines through Dec. 9.

“We hope at this point the coats will go a long way toward getting people in decent winter wear,” Maruskin said.