A library book that had been checked out 82 years ago was finally returned to a library in San Antonio, Texas, in June, brought back by a resident from Oregon.
The book, titled “Your Children, His Family, Friends” by Frances Bruce Strain, was last borrowed in July 1943. The sender, who inherited a collection of books from his late father, found this particular book among them. The letter accompanying it mentioned his father’s childhood memories—he was just 11 at the time the book was borrowed. Only identified as Paag, the writer speculated that his grandmother, Maria del Socorro Aldrete Flores (Cortez), must have checked it out back then.
The letter continued, explaining that in 1943, his grandmother had moved from Mexico City to work for the U.S. Embassy and likely took the book with her. Now, 82 years later, it had become his property. Upon realizing it was from the San Antonio Public Library, he decided to return it, humorously mentioning he hoped there wouldn’t be any overdue fees since, well, “Grandma can’t pay it anymore.”
The library responded via Facebook, displaying the book’s original checkout period of 28 days and detailing the tiny fine of three cents per day. Adjusting for inflation, this 1943 fine would amount to about 56 cents today. Curious how much that adds up to for 82 years? It’s a staggering amount, but not a cause for concern, as the library reassured everyone that fines had been waived since 2021.
The library shared that while the book might theoretically incur a hefty fine—around $900 over the years—it wouldn’t be charged to the sender’s grandmother, which is nice. Instead, the book, in surprisingly good condition, is now on display in the lobby of the Central Library. It was originally published to guide parents regarding their children’s development and was once praised as a thorough guide to the child’s relationships both in the family and with the outside world.
So, this unexpected journey of a long-overdue book ended in a heartwarming return, showcasing how some things, despite the years, can still find their way back home.
