An overdue library book has been returned to Kiama Library – 150 years after it was first signed out.
The lost book was discovered by a local family who were renovating an old sealed fireplace in their home when they found an old tea chest. Inside the chest they found a book that had been borrowed from the original Kiama Library, which was founded in 1872.
The The Antiquities of Athens book, published in 1858, features information and illustrations of ancient Greek architecture. It was part of the library’s collection of 1,000 books at the time, marked as book number ‘506’.
Back then, local families could only borrow one book at a time. However, if you could prove you had several members of your household who could read, you were permitted to borrow three books each month.
The library by-laws are printed inside the book, including the fines policy where people were charged three pence for every week that the book is kept beyond the one-month loan period.
In today’s money, that means the late fees would add up to $28,000.
Kiama Libraries manager, Michelle Hudson said the library journal from the 1870s that recorded who checked out the book at the time had been lost over the years, meaning there is no way of tracking down the original borrower.
“The library will be the custodian of this special book. We have a duty to keep these little treasures,” she said.
“It will take pride of place in our Local Studies collection.
“Borrowing won’t be allowed for this book anymore. We don’t want to have to wait another 150 years to see it again.”
The discovery of this book has unearthed another piece of Kiama’s history and will be a wonderful addition to the library, said Kiama Mayor, Cameron McDonald.
The Mayor thanked the local family for bringing the book back to the library and said he was happy to waive the hefty late fees.
“Our local library has moved location a few times since the first one was established at the old School of Arts in the 1870s but they have always held a special place in our community,” he said.
“This is a fascinating tale of what was a long lost book and I’m glad it’s now back in the library where it belongs.
“I’d like to extend a big thanks to the family who have returned it to the library. Better late than never.”
