The Des Moines Public Library is proud to now be the site of four community refrigerators and pantries. Details and donation guidelines for each:
The Central Library Community Fridge is located in the breezeway of the north entrance off of Grand Avenue. It is open to the public for donations and pickups Monday-Sunday during the library's open hours.
Donation Guidelines
- Fresh produce, bread, pasta, grains, and non-expired dairy products
- Pre-packaged or individually wrapped items
- Standard pantry items are accepted: rice, dry beans, canned goods, oatmeal, pasta, etc.
- No frozen items
- Sign-in is not required to donate or pick up food.
The Forest Community Fridge is located inside the building, right of the entrance of the Forest Avenue Library (1326 Forest Avenue). It is open to the public (for donations and pickups) Monday through Sunday during the library's open hours.
Donation Guidelines
Monday through Sunday during operating hours
- Perishables: fresh produce, eggs, meat, prepacked meals, and dairy products
- Non-perishables: bread, grains, dry beans, canned goods, cereal & oatmeal, pasta, flour, and other standard pantry items
- Plastic and Paper Bags are also accepted
The Franklin Community Fridge is located inside the east entrance of Franklin Avenue Library, 5000 Franklin Avenue. It is open to the public (for donations and pickups) Monday through Sunday during the library's open hours.
Donation Guidelines
Monday through Sunday during operating hours
- Perishables: fresh produce, eggs, meat, prepacked meals, and dairy products
- Non-perishables: bread, grains, dry beans, canned goods, cereal & oatmeal, pasta, flour, and other standard pantry items
- Sign-in is not required to donate or pick up food
The South Side Library Fridge is now located inside South Side Library, 1111 SW Porter Ave. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday during the library's open hours.
Donation Guidelines:
- Standard pantry items are accepted: rice, dry beans, canned goods, oatmeal, pasta, etc.
- Freezer items such as frozen vegetables, fruits, and meals are also accepted.
- Donations accepted Monday through Friday during operating hours