Long-lost library book returned to San Antonio 82 years late — from Oregon

Catch up quick: The library received an unmarked package from Oregon containing the well-worn parenting book by Frances Bruce Strain, as well as a note.

• The sender, who did not include a name, explained they discovered it while sorting through their late father's belongings.
• The sender believes their grandmother checked it out when their father was 11 years old but never returned it after she was transferred to work at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City.

What they're saying: "I hope there is no late fee for it because Grandma won't be able to pay for it anymore," the note read, according to the library.

• The book was due July 30, 1943.

By the numbers: In 1943, late fees were 3 cents a day. If returned on June 1, 2025, the book would be 29,892 days late — a $896.76 tab, assuming the rate never changed.

• Luckily, the library eliminated late fees in 2021.

What's next: The wandering copy is now on display in the Central Library's lobby before it's sold at The BookCellar, with proceeds benefiting the library.