Library Book Returned Nearly 82 Years After Due Date

Published on August 14, 2025

The San Antonio Public Library does not charge late fees for overdue books.

SAN ANTONIO (August 14, 2025) — An overdue library book has found its way back to the San Antonio Public Library nearly 82 years after its due date. “Your Child, His Family, and Friends” by Frances Bruce Strain was checked out in July 1943 and due back 28 days later. The book was received at the library in June 2025 from Oregon with a letter.

The writer of the letter claims they found the book after their father’s passing while sifting through his belongings. “When I noticed it was from the San Antonio Public Library, I decided to send it back to you,” the letter states. The writer believes their grandmother checked out the book when their father was 11 years old, before being transferred to work at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. “She must have taken the book with her, and some 82 years later, it ended up in my possession.”

In their letter, the writer goes on to express their gratitude for the library’s service and even appears to joke about the book’s late return. “I hope there is no late fee for it because Grandma won’t be able to pay for it anymore.”

The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) does not charge late fees for overdue books. SAPL eliminated overdue fines in 2021 to break down financial barriers to accessing library services and resources.

“Your Child, His Family, and Friends” was received in good condition and is on display during August in the lobby at Central Library. Once the book is removed from display, it will be donated to the Friends of San Antonio Public Library for sale in the Book Cellar used book store in the basement at Cental Library. Proceeds from sales in the Book Cellar benefit SAPL.