A book that had been issued from Navan library in the Republic of Ireland, has been returned 80 years late.
A mystery borrower slipped the book discreetly through the letterbox at the county library at the weekend. It was checked out in 1932. County librarian Ciaran Mangan estimates that the book has chalked up a fine of 4,160 euros, based on the original 1930s fine of one penny per week. But they are just delighted to see it back.
"It was an item that had been out on loan effectively since it was published and put into stock and the system in 1932," the BBC quoted him as saying. The librarian calculated the fine incurred by the book, but they would like to make a bargain for the penalty.
"As good Christians, we decided we would waive that fine if the person appears in person and confesses to having returned the book," the librarian said. There are no details on the original borrower because the library's computerised records only date back to 1994.
However, someone may have had their conscience pricked because the overdue book is a pictorial record of the 31st International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin in 1932. The 50th International Eucharistic Congress takes place in Dublin next month. The book has generated a lot of interest.
"We believe it was well cared for and was probably shelved with the family's collection, getting lost among their own books. "We have it on display as it is attracting a lot of attraction," Mangan said.
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