Student’s library book has been due since 1967. They just mailed it back with surprise

More than 50 years ago, a high school sophomore checked out a copy of “Moby Dick” from an Ohio library.

The book was due on March 7, 1967, according to the Columbus Metropolitan Library.

But that day passed by — then many, many more days, too.

Now multiple decades later, that former high school student has returned the copy of the literary classic written by Herman Melville.

The Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Reynoldsburg Branch received a package with the novel, an apology note and an extra surprise.

The long-time borrower also gave the library and brand new copy of “Moby Dick,” as seen in a photo shared by the library on April 5.

In the letter, the borrower said he was aware the book was “incredibly overdue” — 56 years and 21 days as of when he wrote the note, according to a copy obtained by WSYX.

“I can only imagine the inconvenience and frustration my actions may have caused both the library and other patrons who may have wanted to check out the book,” the borrower continued. “I want to offer my sincerest apologies for any inconvenience that may have resulted. It was a surprise when I found it in a book of old mementos I have kept in a box for decades. I understand it is my responsibility to return borrowed items in a timely manner and I failed to do so in this case.”

He included the new book of the same volume to hopefully make amends, WSYX reported.

“You may want to know that I only got a mediocre grade on my book report on this book, completed when I was a sophomore at Walnut Ridge High School,” the man continued. “However my reading skills improved and I went on to college, graduate school and a successful career in public service. I am now a grandfather who looks forward to taking his granddaughter to story time at the local library where we live. Once again thank you for your understanding.”

Many Facebook users could resonate with the high schooler who forgot to turn in their reading material.

“In fairness, it’s taking me a reaaaaaally long time to finish reading that particular novel as well,” one person commented.

“Well that’s about how long it takes to read it,” another said.

“I empathize… that’s a long read,” one person wrote. “Well, done, reader!”

Fortunately for the borrower, the Columbus Metropolitan Library stopped charging new late fees in 2017, according to The Columbus Dispatch.

“Instead of fines for overdue materials, the library will block the library cards of customers who have kept items 21 days or longer past their due dates,” the newspaper reported. “Until the overdue materials are returned, the customer won’t be able to check out any new items. If the materials are overdue for 35 days or longer, the customer will be charged a replacement fee for the overdue materials — but that fee will be removed if the borrowed items are returned.”

The library also charges for damaged items, according to its website.

This story was originally published April 10, 2023 at 7:49 AM with the headline "Student’s library book has been due since 1967. They just mailed it back with surprise."