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Overdue library book finally returned to school after 120 years

Photo from BBC
A library book was returned 120 years late after a British woman found it among her husband’s possessions. Photo from BBC

It was better late than never after an elderly British woman discovered she was in possession of a library book that was 120 years overdue.

Alice Gillett of Taunton, Somerset was going through her late husband’s book collection when she came across a well-aged copy of “The Microscope and its Revelations” by Dr William B. Carpenter, reports Metro UK.

It wasn’t long until Gillett also discovered a library stamp from Hereford Cathedral School on the inside that was dated back to 1886. The book had been borrowed by her grandfather, Prof. Arthur Boycott, and never returned during his time as a pupil at the institution from 1886 to 1894.

Looking to clear her grandfather’s name, Gillett decided to contact the school to return the 1,000-page volume and even attached a letter apologising for his thievery.

“I am sorry to inform you that one of your former pupils, Professor A.E. Boycott appears to have stolen the enclosed – I can’t imagine how the school has managed without it!,” the note reads.

It looks like there were no hard feelings once the text was finally returned.

“We are delighted to be reunited with the book and are pleased it is still in such good condition,” a school spokesperson said.

The library was also kind enough to waive any late fees for the overdue book. That’s a good thing considering that 120 years worth of fines adds up to a rather pricey 7,446 British pounds or approximately $12,318 Canadian.