Mystery customer returns overdue book from 1979 to Deschutes Public Library, Oregon after 44 years
Better late than never: Staff shocked after anonymous customer returns a VERY overdue library book after 44 years – ‘It’s like a literary time capsule’
- The American Library has received an anonymous package
- There was a book that was checked out in 1979
An old children’s book has found its way back to its home nearly 50 years after being loaned from a library.
A package was sent to the Deschutes Public Library in Oregon containing a 1974 book that was long overdue, a $20 donation, and a “sweet” note apologizing for not returning it sooner.
The book, titled ‘The Hocket Trick’, was borrowed by an unknown customer on April 25, 1979 according to the stamped till card in a pocket on the first page.
Fortunately, Deschutes Library doesn’t charge for late returns, but the anonymous book lover donated $20 for their troubles.
Staff said receiving the package was like getting a “literary time capsule” and shared the return online as a reminder to “collect” any late items lying around the house.
An American library received a package in the mail containing an old book loaned in 1979 and an apology note for its 44-year late return
The book, titled ‘The Hocket Trick’, was borrowed by an unknown customer on April 25, 1979 according to the stamped till card in a pocket on the first page
The librarians were amazed when they received a simple anonymous package and pulled out the vintage book, along with a sincere apology and a donation.
“To whom it may concern, my apologies. This book was supposed to appear in the late 1970s. Please accept this apology,” the inside note read.
“PS We may have already paid for the book, but this check is good to use.”
The team posted the find on Facebook in honor of National Return Borrowed Books Week.
“We received a package containing this copy of The Hockey Trick from 1974, along with a sweet note explaining that the book had been loaned about 45 years ago. It was like being given a literary time capsule!’ they wrote in one after.
Deschutes Library thankfully doesn’t charge for late returns, but the anonymous book lover writes a “sweet” note and donates $20 for their troubles
“And remember, we don’t charge for late bookings (although there is a replacement fee for lost items), so now would be a good time to pick up and return any late items.”
Deschutes Library Operations Manager Mayra Corn explained Inside edition the unexpected return was a “great opportunity to share a feel-good story with the audience.”
“Any time we can remind the public of all the ways libraries make a difference – that’s great!” she said.
Mayra said The Hockey Game will be displayed in the library’s administrative offices to serve as a “reminder that it’s never too late to get something off your chest — or in the mail.”
The story thrilled bookworms from all over the world online with one saying: ‘Better late than never!’.
“Bet their mom is happy they finally cleaned their room,” another joked.
“I wonder if it’s a collector’s item now,” a third asked.