In an unusual turn of events, an Oregon resident returned a library book that had been checked out 82 years prior to its return, showcasing the enduring legacy of books and the connections that they forge through generations. This extraordinary incident occurred in June 2023 at the San Antonio Public Library in Texas, where the book, titled “Your Child, His Family, and Friends,” authored by Frances Bruce Strain, was finally brought back to its rightful place. The story came with a touching note that referenced family ties, emphasizing how the passage of time has its intertwining effects on lives and legacies.
The book was initially borrowed in July 1943, a time steeped in historical significance, marking the heart of World War II. The letter from the current owner, who only identified themselves as P.A.A.G., conveyed a poignant narrative: the individual discovered the book while sorting through boxes belonging to their late father, who had passed away recently. P.A.A.G. detailed that their grandmother, Maria del Socorro Aldrete Flores (Cortez), was the one who originally checked out the book when she transferred from Mexico City to work at the U.S. Embassy. The sentiment behind the return was not just about the overdue book—but rather, it was a reflection on family history and the connection to a beloved relative who had long since passed.
The nostalgic return of the book was accompanied by a light-hearted note, where the sender humorously hoped that there would not be any late fees associated with the long-overdue return, given that “Grandma won’t be able to pay for it anymore.” This gesture highlights the changing values around libraries and lending systems; the San Antonio Public Library subsequently reassured the sender that there would be no late fees to worry about since they had eliminated overdue fines entirely in 2021.
Interestingly, the library took to social media to share this delightful story, along with the original checkout details that showed the standard 28-day lending period, with fines assessed at three cents per day for overdue items. This core information transformed into an amusing statistic, as three cents from 1943 equates to approximately 56 cents in today’s economy, and the accumulated fees for the book would have tallied to about $900—but considering the waves of inflation over the decades, it could be even more than $16,000 today. Nevertheless, this financial aspect of the tale became secondary to the overarching themes of connection and nostalgia that enveloped the book’s journey.
“Your Child, His Family, and Friends,” published in 1943, served as a parenting guide, offering insight into child development and fostering healthy relationships. At the time of its publication, The Cincinnati Enquirer described it as “a complete guidebook to the personal relationships of the child with his family and the outside world.” This book not only holds a place in literary history but also represents the evolution of parenting approaches, illustrating societal norms of that era.
Upon its return and after verification, the library reported that the book was still in good condition and displayed it in the Central Library lobby. This act of showcasing the revived volume serves as a tribute not only to the book’s physical longevity but also to the lasting impact of words and ideas that resonate throughout generations. Once it is removed from display, it will be donated to the Friends of San Antonio Public Library, where it will then be offered for sale, bringing a new chapter to its storied existence.
This whimsical yet heartwarming experience emphasizes the importance of libraries as cultural institutions that foster connections, not only between books and readers but also among families across the years. It is a reminder that whether it be through a simple act of returning a book or sharing a cherished memory, literature has the unique ability to bring people together, reinforcing bonds that transcend time.
