If you’ve ever sheepishly returned a book a few days past its due date, take heart – you’re nowhere near the world record.
The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) in Texas recently received a copy of Your Child, His Family, and Friends – a parenting guide published in 1943 – that had been checked out 82 years ago and only returned in May 2025.
Book Resurfaces in Oregon
The book, borrowed in July 1943, made its way back to Texas after the borrower’s grandchild discovered it in a box of inherited items in Oregon.
Along with the aged volume came a humorous note: “I hope there is no late fee for it because Grandma won’t be able to pay for it anymore.”
The witty comment sparked amusement across social media, with SAPL sharing photos of the book and the note on their official Facebook page.
R280 000 Fine… Dodged!
Under the 1943 late fee policy of three cents per day, the book should’ve racked up a penalty of roughly $900 in original value – but inflation-adjusted, the amount balloons to over $16 000, or approximately R280 000.
Fortunately for “Grandma,” SAPL abolished late fees in 2021, meaning no charges were imposed.
To put it in perspective: the book was borrowed when World War II was still raging, sliced bread was a novel idea, and colour television hadn’t even been invented.
Now, in 2025, the time-traveling parenting guide is on display at the library and will soon be auctioned off, with proceeds supporting literacy programmes and new readers.
A Legacy That Outlived the Borrower
Librarians say the book is still in remarkably good condition, adding a touch of irony to the decades-long delay.
“It’s honestly heartwarming,” said a library spokesperson.
“It’s a reminder that stories – and sometimes even the books themselves – can outlive us.”
So What’s the Lesson?
Next time your library book is a week or two late, take a deep breath. You’re still about 81 years and 50 weeks ahead of the record.
And, as SAPL put it best: “Late is better than never – especially when the book is still in one piece!”
How good – or bad – are you at returning library books on time?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
