Overdue Library Books Returned 50 Years Late to Beverley Library

Two library books borrowed from Beverley Library in 1976 have finally been returned — 50 years overdue — after being discovered among donations at a local charity shop.

The books, a copy of "The Railway Children" by E. Nesbit and a local history guide to the Yorkshire Wolds, were found by volunteer Helen Foster while sorting through a box of donated items at the Beverley Oxfam shop.

The Discovery

"I noticed the old library stamps inside the front covers," said Helen. "When I saw the date stamps — March 1976 — I couldn't believe it. They'd been borrowed before I was even born!"

The books still bore the distinctive purple stamps of the former East Riding County Library Service, along with handwritten borrower cards tucked inside their back covers.

Return to the Library

Helen contacted Beverley Library, where staff were delighted to receive the wayward volumes. Head librarian Sarah Jennings said: "We've had some late returns in our time, but 50 years has to be a record. We're just glad to have them back!"

At the library's old fine rate of 2p per day, the theoretical fine would have totalled over £730. However, East Riding Libraries abolished overdue fines in 2023, so the anonymous borrower has been spared.

A Happy Ending

The Railway Children has been returned to the shelves, while the Yorkshire Wolds guide — now a collector's item — has been transferred to the local studies collection at Beverley's Treasure House.

"It's a lovely story," said Councillor Mike Sherwood. "And it's a reminder that Beverley Library has been at the heart of this community for generations."