Recently, a book checked out in July 1979 was anonymously returned to a New Jersey library.
Back to Basics by the editors of Flying magazine was due back at the library's Hopewell branch July 25, 1979, but it wasn't returned until it was anonymously left in a box of donations earlier this month. Andrea Merrick, manager of the Hopewell branch, told NJ.com that they were surprised because it was so old. "We all thought it was really neat, like seeing what the hours used to be and the 10-cent fine for losing the card."
It is not possible to identify the patron who initially checked out the overdue book from the library's records, Merrick said. At the current rate of 10 cents per day, the book would have accrued more than $1,600 in fines, but the library caps fees at $6.
If the person who checked out the book decides to come forward, Merrick said the library will not attempt to collect any fines.