Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Book to the future: Library book comes home more than 50 years late

A book has been returned to Scunthorpe Central Library – some 54 years since it was borrowed.

The book, a first edition copy of ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’, was last checked out in 1969 and could have incurred fines of £120 18 shillings and tuppence – equivalent to £4,500 at today’s values.

North Lincolnshire Council recently took the decision to permanently abolish library fines, encouraging residents to use the services at their local library without fear of penalties.

Cllr John Davison said: “So much has changed in the 50 years since this book was last taken out, but local people can still visit our 14 local libraries, browse a brilliant selection of titles, and receive recommendations from our knowledgeable teams.

“In other ways, our libraries have continued to evolve. Many are now part of community hubs, enabling residents to access key services more conveniently, under one roof.

“Our library members also have access to thousands more books than ever before, with some 4,600 e-books and e-audio titles at their fingertips through Borrowbox and 7,000 more magazines through PressReader.

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