Mattapoisett Free Public Library, 7 Barstow St., is offering a series of events in January.

The library is participating in Food for Fines for the month of January. Patrons can support at-risk community members and clear up old fines by donating food to the Mattapoisett public health nurse's food pantry.

To participate, bring one non-perishable item per fine or overdue item to the circulation desk at the library. It doesn't matter which library owns the material. 

Items cannot be left in the book drops. Any lost items or items returned with damage will be billed according to the respective library's policy. Call the library with any questions. 

 “Curious about… Vegan Cheese -  A Food Tasting’’ will be presented at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 22. 

Those attending will sample a variety of vegan cheeses, vote on their favorites and learn about vegan alternatives. 

This is the first in a series of programs about more sustainable food alternatives. This program is funded by the Richard & Ann J. Prouty Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., co-trustee.

The library also announces the return of the Quahog Book Awards for readers in grades three through six. The program encourages young people to read books at a variety aimed at a variety of age levels.

This winter reading event runs from Jan. 25 until May 1 and ends once all of the votes have been counted. 

The Quahog Award winner will be declared at a celebratory pizza party in May. Young readers are encouraged to sign up, select their books from one of four groups, and read as much as they can.

Adults and teens can participate in the Winter Reading Program, which runs through March 26.

Patrons are welcome to participate on Beanstack or in paper form. Contact Michelle Skaar at mskaar@sailsinc.org with any questions. 

For more information on library programs and events, visit mattapoisett library.org.