{
  "id": 6177163,
  "title": "San Antonio library book checked out in 1943 returns 82 years later",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/san-antonio-library-book-checked-out-in-1943-returns-82-years-later",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-07T21:20:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/a-san-antonio-library-book-checked-out-in-1943-travelled-with-one-family-for-generations-82-years-later-it-came-back-from-oregon-with-a-note-about-the-late-fee/articleshow/133862031.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In July 1943, a copy of the book \"Your Child, His Family, and Friends\" was checked out from the San Antonio Public Library. The library stated that the book was due back in 28 days, but instead, it resurfaced 82 years later in June 2025 from Oregon. The book had belonged to the family of the sender's late father, who borrowed it when their father was 11 years old. The family was planning to move to Mexico City at the time, and it is believed that the book traveled with them. The person who found the book decided to return it to the library, which was pleasantly surprised to learn that the overdue fine had been eliminated in 2021. The returned book was in good condition and was displayed in the lobby of the San Antonio Central Library before being donated to the Friends of the San Antonio Public Library for sale.",
  "summary": "After 82 years, a library book borrowed in 1943 was finally returned in Oregon, revealing a heartfelt letter detailing its extensive journey. The family inquired about overdue fees, but fortunately, the library had abolished such fines in 2021. The book, still in excellent condition, was briefly showcased before being put up for sale.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}