A California librarian opened a package this month and found a blast from the past — a book that was almost 46 years late.
Inside was a well-traveled copy of The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford, returned to the San Diego County Library’s La Mesa branch decades after its May 20, 1980 due date.
Branch manager Cassie Koldewyn said the moment came with a strong hit of vintage-book aroma.
“I got to open it and enjoy the old book smell,” she said. “They even sent it to the correct branch, though we’ve moved, so someone did their homework.”
The mystery sender stayed anonymous, including only a note that read, “Sorry this is so late,” plus a smiley face.
No word on the late fee, but the journey back to the shelf may be the most incredible part.
Original article published here.
