I have an overdue library book. It has been overdue for 33 years. Should I return it?

Question

It is a book on Daniel Boone that I checked out in April 1977.  I never did finish it, either.  I have been thinking of waiting until the library has a "free overdue book day" so I won't have to pay.   I owe over $500 in overdue fees at the 1977 rate, so I probably owe much more in today's money.   Maybe I should finally finish it before I take it back.  Then again, a week after I checked it out, my town had a massive flood and the library lost everything it had.  So, they have it on record as being destroyed.  They got federal and state money to replace the books plus my parents gave a $10 donation after the flood.  So, am I legally bound to give it back and pay the fine?

Nikki FM · Accepted Answer

I wouldn't even bother with it after all this time, especially after the flood and all. I just wanted to say that your question made my day. I checked out a book when I was in 4th grade (I'm 24 now!) and still have it too! AND I never read it. I'm so glad I'm not alone! :)

jo5h90 · Answer

Keep it i wouldnt take it back unless they call you and ask for it, otherwise when you take it back and they realise its been that long at the amout you owe can you fork out for this if it comes to it?? if they wanted there book, or their money for that matter they would have called you for it or sent you letters recently or made you aware of it in some way, keep it and if they ask you for it deny all knowledge say you returned it and it must have got lost in the flood lol, it will probably be new staff who run the place

Adam M · Answer

Just walk in leave it on the desk and say yeah this might be yours then walk out.
they will all have a laugh and fun finding out that it is 33 years overdue and put it back on the shelf.

Wire Tapped · Answer

Read the book, then give it back to the library. If you can't read it before the amnesty date, then just take the book back and read it in the library by visiting when you have time.

the mighty Quinn · Answer

library fines do not go higher than the price of the book - and you, a 45 year old man (although still living with your aging parents) should be able to figure that out ;-)

John R · Answer

if you have some more books that you want to get rid of, just put them all in a bag and say "i want to donate these", then walk out.

if you dont have any books to spare, keep it, unless you have $2000 to spare, but, if you do decide to take it back, i would suggest reading the book to the end, if they do make you pay, atleast you got to read it. 

good luck

Everything Nice · Answer

After 33 years, I think they have replaced the book. It's not like the librarians are hunting you down and searching for this book.

peyton l · Answer

I'd return it. 
Chances are they probably wont ask for the late fee, they'll most likely laugh and be thankful the book came back.

Lil Monroe · Answer

I wouldn't return it, I have often observed that when i try to do the right thing i get into more trouble.

Allen Gill · Answer

You should... it's the right thing AND you'll have a horribly guilty conscience if you don't... not to be a killjoy or something.

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I have an overdue library book. It has been overdue for 33 years. Should I return it?

13 Answers