Overdue library book returned to Vancouver branch 51 years later

An overdue library book has been returned to a Vancouver branch, 51 years after it had been checked out.

Name of the book is 'The Telescope' and an apology note was tucked inside author Harry Edward Neal's book.

Vancouver Public Library on Twitter:

Such a sweet note in this book returned to our South Hill Branch *slightly* overdue (51 yrs!). With our recent removal of late fees... they won’t get charged a cent for their late return! Eliminating fines = greater access to all. http://ow.ly/Iz5H50JqRUm

Overdue Fines? Not Anymore!

Starting June 1, VPL will no longer be charging overdue fines on all VPL material. Any outstanding late charges will be removed from borrowers’ accounts. Eliminating overdue fines is another way VPL is helping to address affordability in Vancouver.

Effective June 1, 2022

Overdue fines are eliminated for all VPL items, including Fast Reads, Quick Views, musical instruments and interlibrary loans.

Existing overdue fines will be cleared from your account through an automated process. No action is required but it may take a few weeks to update all accounts.

You will receive additional reminder notifications (by phone or email) to return overdue materials.

If an item is not returned within 23 days of its due date, the cardholder will have a lost item charge attached to their account. When the item is returned, this charge will be removed.