What happens when you return library books 20 years late? One Oxford alum did—and the college’s response might surprise you.
In a delightful twist of events that would make any bibliophile’s heart flutter, an apologetic former student has finally returned three books to Oxford University’s Lady Margaret Hall, only two decades after borrowing them! Let it serve as a poignant reminder that it is never too late to make amends, especially when it comes to beloved books.
A 20-Year-Long Borrowing Adventure
Have you ever taken a book out and kept it too long? Well, we bet you’ve not had any books for this long…
Imagine the scene: you’re sorting through old boxes in the attic, reminiscing about your crazy university days, when suddenly, you uncover a selection of books that seem oddly familiar. Opening them, you realize that they’re library books. Not only that, but they were due back 20 years ago.
That is precisely what happened to a former Oxford student who, upon realizing they had “inadvertently” held onto the books since their undergraduate years, decided it was time to return them to their rightful home.
In the hopes of placating the librarians, the student attached a heartfelt written note. The note not only expressed a sincere apology for the heavily overdue books, but also concluded with a humble plea: “Please forgive me.”
Anyone who has ever borrowed a book from the library and missed that all-important due date is familiar with the dread and the guilt that comes with it. It is a sentiment that resonates with anyone who’s ever misplaced a library book or two.
A Gracious Response
Lady Margaret Hall, the Oxford college in question, is situated on Norham Gardens in Oxford. When the books arrived, the college (fortunately!) received the overdue books and accompanying note with grace and good humor. The librarians took to Facebook to share the news, thanking the former student for “getting them back home in the end” and adding, “All is forgiven!
It warmed our hearts, and it goes to show the care and kindness that are at the core of most libraries. There is an underlying understanding and forgiveness that libraries often extend to their patrons, which we all often take for granted.
The standard fine for overdue books at the Lady Margaret Hall library is 10 pence (GBP) per day. But don’t worry, the student wouldn’t have been charged a whopping £730 — there’s a maximum charge. The maximum charge for books is £10, plus the cost of replacement for long-overdue items. However, fortunately for the patron, it appears that in this case, the library chose to waive any penalties. It seems that the return of the books, coupled with the sincere apology, was more than enough.
The Timeless Value of Books
Not only does this story highlight how understanding librarians can be, but it also highlights the value of books and the bonds we often make with them. From gripping, edge-of-your-seat novels to enlightening non-fiction work, to even cherished textbooks from the peak of our university studies—books bury themselves in our hearts and have a way of leaving a lasting impression on us. No wonder plenty of people forget that the books aren’t actually theirs!
For the former student, holding onto the books for 20 years wasn’t just about forgetfulness—it was a testament to the impact those books had on their life. The books hadn’t been cast aside the second their studies were done; they were placed away in a box, on a bookshelf, somewhere safe, for two whole decades. But now, by returning them, they ensured that future students could also benefit from their wisdom and insights.
Time to Check Your Shelves!
This tale might have ended up in our patron dodging any hefty fines, but that doesn’t mean that’s the way it ends for everyone with late books! This story should also serve as a reminder to check our own bookshelves for any borrowed books that might have been stored away and forgotten about over time.
Libraries play a crucial role in our communities — whether in schools, providing access to all-important knowledge and help, or in public libraries that foster a sense of community and a love for literacy, their value is huge. By making sure we return borrowed items, even if they’re long overdue and we’re embarrassed, we can help maintain our libraries and ensure that everyone has access to the resources they so carefully curate.
So, the moral of the story is, if you happen to stumble across a library book that has been hiding away, it’s time to take it back. And maybe write a note of apology to go with it! The chances are, you’ll be met with a laugh and a very happy librarian who is just glad to have some of their stock back!
If you’re that worried about taking back overdue books, why not post them, or pop them back through a self-serve desk if your library has one? That way, the book will find its way home, but you don’t have to admit that you missed the due date… by a few years.
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Millie Ramm
Millie has been writing since she was a child, and has spent more time with her nose in books than anywhere else. She has been ghostwriting novels and editing for the past few years, and when not working she is curled up with her cats, looking for her next read.
