Overdue library book returned after 55 years - Houston weather, traffic, news | FOX 26 | MyFoxHouston

Overdue library book returned after 55 years

Posted: Updated:
NEW YORK (MYFOXNY) -

"Fire of Francis Xavier" is considered nonfiction. But the more appropriate place for it is probably on the shelves of the mystery section.

The book was checked out from the library on April 10, 1958, and has been on some journey. Now the book has finally found its way back home to the Fort Washington branch. It was delivered Monday in a manila envelope with a $100 check.

The dusty, dog-eared and marked-up copy was clearly used by whoever checked it out. And that's part of the mystery: who really had it? The library doesn't know. Its records don't go back that far. All library officials know is whose name was on the check, and they are keeping that confidential because the sender could have been anyone cleaning out a house or attic.

Then there is the issue of the overdue library fine; 55 years ago it was 2 cents a day. But library policy is not to exceed cost of book, which was $4 in 1958.

Adjusting for inflation, the value is $50, which is more than covered by that $100 check.

For those looking for this book, you won't find it at the Fort Washington branch. It is going back to the Main Branch so that the librarians there can decide if the book can be put back into circulation.

  • Manhattan NewsManhattan News

  • Sunday, May 26 2013 12:00 AM EDT2013-05-26 04:00:59 GMT
    While some business may be have been dismal at the beaches, a lot of people who needed to venture out and keep busy Saturday found things to do – and stay dry.
    While some business may be have been dismal at the beaches, a lot of people who needed to venture out and keep busy Saturday found things to do – and stay dry.
  • Saturday, May 25 2013 9:26 PM EDT2013-05-26 01:26:30 GMT
    New Yorkers know that finding street parking is not easy. Drivers can circle for a minute or even an hour – and even then you still may not find that parking spot.
    New Yorkers know that finding street parking is not easy. Drivers can circle for a minute or even an hour – and even then you still may not find that parking spot.
  • Saturday, May 25 2013 8:47 PM EDT2013-05-26 00:47:11 GMT
    Internal Affairs officers on Saturday were looking into allegations made by actress Amanda Bynes that NYPD officers sexually assaulted her when she was charged with heaving a marijuana bong out the window
    Internal Affairs officers on Saturday were looking into allegations made by actress Amanda Bynes that NYPD officers sexually assaulted her when she was charged with heaving a marijuana bong out the window
Powered by WorldNow

KRIV FOX 26
4261 Southwest Freeway
Houston, TX 77027

Phone: (713) 479-2801
Fax: (713) 479-2859

Didn't find what you were looking for?
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Fox Television Stations, Inc. and Worldnow. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Ad Choices