Magazine returned to US library after 132 years overdue
A library patron in New Hampshire returned a magazine that was 132 years overdue after the library announced a fine-free amnesty period. The item, from 1894, will be preserved for local history rather than returned to circulation.
Why it matters
The story illustrates the impact of library policy changes on community engagement and the preservation of historical artifacts.
Image source, Getty Images By Tabby Wilson Published 14 minutes ago A 19th century magazine borrowed from a library in New Hampshire 132 years ago has finally been returned.
Concord Public Library said the overdue September 1894 issue of The Century Illustrated Monthly Magazine was returned last week after the library announced a freeze on fines.
The magazine was 48,220 days overdue and would have incurred a $12,055 (£8,950) fine.
The patron who returned the magazine, John, said it had been "hanging around" his house for decades, but he had no idea how it ended up in his home.
He decided to return the magazine after reading about the library's fine freeze in the local newspaper.
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