Patron returns book to library 51 years after its due date

A book has been recently returned 51 years later after it was due by a former patron of a Pennsylvania library.

The book in discussion is the “Lombardi: Winning is the Only Thing”, edited by Jerry Kramer was due to be returned on July 26, 1973 to the Benson Memorial Library, according to UPI.

The library shared the return on their Instagram account saying that it has the “best patrons” and “they still surprise us!”.

“A patron recently returned this book that was due on July 26, 1973 — 51 years overdue. You read that right! And while we went overdue fine-free in 2021, this kind patron calculated the amount the fine would have been, added interest, and donated it to the library,” Benson library wrote.

“We cannot thank all our patrons — past, present, and future — enough for your unyielding support of the library. A wonderful delight we never could have anticipated and a story we'll remember forever!” it added.

The executive director of the library Jessica Hilburn conveyed the book will not be available for circulation for the readers but it will instead go on display in the office.

"It's been so nice to share his love of the library," Hilburn told the Erie Times-News of the patron who returned the tome.

"Even 51 years after he last checked out his last book, he still remembers the library and appreciates the services we provide,” she added.