Libraries often get books returned a few days late but the staff at Kiama Library couldn't believe their eyes recently when a book was returned that was 150 years overdue.
A local family was renovating an old sealed fireplace in their house when they found an old tea chest which contained a hidden treasure - a book that was borrowed from the original Kiama Library which was founded in 1872.
The book is called The Antiquities of Athens, which includes information and illustrations of ancient Greek architecture. Published in 1858, it was part of the library's collection of 1000 books at the time, Number 506.
Back then, local families could only borrow one book at a time but if you could prove you had several members of your household who could read, you were allowed to borrow three books each month.
The 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 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 so there was 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.
Kiama Library manager Michelle Hudson with Antiquities of Athens. Photo: Kiama Library
"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 our library.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald thanked the local family for bringing the book back to the library and was happy to waive the 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."
