A library book has finally been returned to Tooting Library after being overdue for 48 years.
The book, which would have racked up a massive fine of £6,170 if it wasn’t capped, was mailed back all the way from Canada.
Wandsworth Libraries posted a Tweet trying to find the mystery borrower and he has now been revealed as Tony Spence – a 72-year-old retired judge living in Port Moody, British Columbia.
Wandsworth Libraries has a new longest overdue book. Returned after 48 years and 107 days. Thank you to whoever sent it back to Tooting Library from Port Moody in Canada. The questions is, how did it get there? pic.twitter.com/5qb1wCHPod
— Wandsworth Libraries (@wandsworthlibs) June 6, 2022
A spokesperson for Wandsworth Libraries said: “Here at Wandsworth library service we were surprised and delighted this week to have a book returned to us in the post all the way from Canada.
“We were then even more surprised to find the book had been borrowed in 1974, and was overdue by approximately 48 years and 107 days.
“We’re pleased to have the book back in a condition good enough to return to the shelves, if we wanted, and under the circumstances we’re waiving the fines.
“We thank Mr Spence for returning it and hope he enjoyed it.”
The fine, which would only amount to £8.50 because of the cap, has been waived as the library has said they are just happy to have the book returned and to make a connection with a customer thousands of miles away.
According to CIPFA statistics, Wandsworth’s libraries issued more books than any other London library service for three years running up until the year of 2019-2020.
The book is now safely back in its original home - the 120-year-old Tooting Library.
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