82 Years Overdue: Library Book Returned with Poignant Note, San Antonio Library Forgives Potential $16,000 Fine
82 Years Overdue: Library Book Returned with Poignant Note, San Antonio Library Forgives Potential $16,000 Fine
A remarkable piece of history recently made its way back to the San Antonio Public Library, nearly 82 years after it was first borrowed. The book, ‘Your Child, His Family, and Friends,’ originally checked out in July 1943, arrived this past June accompanied by a touching letter stating, ‘Grandma won’t be able to pay for it anymore.’
The sender, identified only by the initials P.A.A.G., explained in the note, shared on the library’s Instagram, that the book was discovered among their recently deceased father’s belongings. It is believed to have been borrowed by their grandmother, Maria del Socorro Aldrete Flores (Cortez), before she moved to Mexico City for work at the US Embassy, taking the book with her.
Despite the book being overdue for eight decades, the San Antonio Public Library confirmed that no late fees were incurred, as the library eliminated all overdue fines in 2021. Had the original three-cent-a-day fine (stamped inside the book) been enforced and adjusted for inflation, the penalty could have reached an astonishing $16,000.
In surprisingly good condition, the historic volume is currently on display at the city’s central library throughout August, offering a rare glimpse into a bygone era and a testament to an unexpected return. Following its display, the book will be donated to the Friends of San Antonio Public Library to be sold, with proceeds benefiting the library.
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