London, Dec 31 (IANS) A library book that was borrowed 123 years ago but was never returned has finally been found. The book, however, could not be deposited back as by now the library has been shut down.
The ‘Good Words for 1888’ was borrowed from the Troutbeck Institute library in in Troubeck, in Britain’s Lake district, shortly after it was first published. It was kept on a shelf at Townend House in Troutbeck, home to the Browne family.
The book was discovered by staff at the National Trust which now owns the building.
The library from which the book was borrowed no longer exists.
Libraries in the region now fine only six pounds for overdue book. Otherwise, the total payable fine, at 10 pence a day, would come up to 4,489.50 pounds.
The thick-bound 860-page book by Donald MacLeod has stories on many subjects. It was donated to the Troutbeck Institute Library by a Miss Edmondson and borrowed by the Browne family shortly afterwards.
The Browne family had a 1,500-book library of their own.
