Library Book Returned After 82 Years

Kokcha News Agency – A book borrowed from the San Antonio Public Library in Texas in 1943 has finally been returned after 82 years. The book, titled “Your Child, His Family, and Friends” by Frances Bruce Strain, was brought back by a resident of Oregon.

Accompanying the book was a note that read, “My grandmother can no longer pay the fine.” The person who returned the book explained that it had been borrowed by their grandmother, Maria del Socorro Aldrete Flores, who took it with her when she moved to Mexico City. The book was discovered years later among boxes inherited from their father.

Over $16,000 in Late Fees
In 2021, the San Antonio Library eliminated late fees. However, at the time the book was borrowed, the daily fine was 3 cents. Based on this calculation, the fine for 82 years would have amounted to approximately $900, or over $16,000 when adjusted for inflation.

To Be Displayed and Sold
Library officials announced that the book is still in good condition and will be displayed at the city library throughout August. Afterward, it will be sold, with the proceeds benefiting the library.

While 82 years is a long time, it is not a record. According to Guinness World Records, the longest overdue library book was one borrowed from Cambridge University in 1668 and returned 288 years later.