Securely dispose of documents at the library’s annual drive-thru shred event

 

(Stillwater, OK) –The Stillwater Public Library and Shred-Away Shredding are holding their annual drive-thru paper shredding event on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 9-11 a.m. The service is free, but the library does accept donations to help cover costs.

It’s no coincidence that the library holds the event during tax season. Librarian Brenna Gilchrist thinks that dealing with numerous copies of documents containing private information makes people more aware of the piles of items they need to get rid of.

“As soon as January begins, the help desk gets taken over with questions about two things–taxes and when the shred will take place,” Gilchrist said. “There’s probably also something about starting the new year, getting organized, or perhaps even getting your finances in order that makes the event so popular.”

Gilchrist knows that figuring out which papers to keep can be stressful.

“I know that I struggle at times with knowing if or when it is ok to toss something out,” Gilchrist said. “We recommend checking with your attorney or financial advisor if possible.”

On the day of the event, vehicles should line up in the library’s north parking lot and then will wind through the Prairie Art Center’s parking lot. Volunteers and library staff will unload boxes, and documents will be shredded onsite by one of Shred-Away’s trucks. Each car is limited to two copy paper-sized boxes of material. Staples and paper clips do not have to be removed, but attendees are responsible for removing any empty boxes they bring.

The library also maintains a webpage about the drive-thru shred containing links to trusted resources that provide tips for identifying documents to shred. That information, along with frequently asked questions about the event, can be found at stillwaterok.gov/LibraryShred

Gilchrist is looking forward to another successful shred event and is thankful to everyone who helps the library make it happen year after year.

“We honestly wouldn’t be able to do it if it weren’t for Prairie Arts and the Stillwater Farmers Market for sharing their space with us,” Gilchrist said. “Not to mention the City of Stillwater for letting us use traffic items, and the numerous volunteers that get up early to help us keep the event running smoothly and safely.”

The library still needs a few more volunteers. Those interested should call the Help Desk at (405) 372-3633 x8106. Librarians at the Help Desk can also answer questions about the event.

The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. Library hours are Monday- Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.