News / Book returns to Lerwick library 40 years late
IT WAS a case of better late than never for a reader who returned a book to Shetland Library this week some 40 years overdue.
The person, who wished to remain anonymous, took out Underwater Archaeology – A Nascent Discipline back in 1978.
They were not penalised as the Lerwick library does not issue fines for late returns.
Library manager Karen Fraser said while it is “always nice to get books back eventually”, staff always prefer a prompt return by the due date.
“This looks like quite an interesting book though it is perhaps a little dated after 40 years away,” she added.
“There have been a few Twitter comments suggesting that underwater archaeology might no longer be ‘nascent’ (just beginning to develop).
“I am particularly taken by the ‘ghost image’ of the old yellow ticket on the date stamp page, showing the book has been out since before the days of barcodes and scanners.”
Staff believe the record for the most overdue book is Mary Blance’s 43-year late return of The Adventures of Beowulf, which was handed back in April.
However, Fraser politely reminded Shetland’s readers that “this is not a record we encourage our customers to try and break”.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.