A library book has been returned 52 years late.
Jo Wilde – who is the manager of Lowestoft Library – was “amazed” when the copy of ‘The Metaphysical Poets’, which was rented out in 1967, arrived in the post accompanied with a £100 cheque to cover the late fine and a typed letter explaining the book had been rediscovered during a recent house move.
Speaking to ITV News, Ms. Wilde said: “They said they settled after moving around a lot and discovered the book. They were very embarrassed and can only think they took it out while staying in Lowestoft in the late 1960s with their parents, and enclosed the book and cheque. I was amazed. We do get books back after quite a while but that’s the longest we’ve ever known. I’m pleased they sent it back as I think some people would be too embarrassed and keep it.”
Lowestoft Library will keep the £100 donation which is an equivalent of Ksh 13,000.
According to Sky News,” The fine would have been three old pennies per week, meaning the borrower would owe about £33 and 10 shillings. Nowadays, the fine is 15p per day but the charge is capped at £7.35 for an adult book.”