Historic Return of a Long-Overdue Book
A book borrowed from a library in Helsinki was returned in May after being overdue for more than 84 years, a librarian revealed. The book in question was a Finnish translation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s “Refugees.”
Unprecedented Return
The book was received by librarian Heini Strand at the main desk of the Helsinki Central Library Oodi. The due date of the loan was Dec. 26, 1939, making it one of the longest overdue books ever returned to the library.
Unknown Origins
The relationship between the person who returned the book and the original borrower remains a mystery. Usually, books returned decades after the due date are discovered among deceased relatives’ belongings.
Possible Explanation
A likely reason for the delayed return could be attributed to the tumultuous events surrounding the due date, which coincided with the Soviet Union’s invasion of Finland in November 1939. The so-called Winter War between the two countries lasted until March 1940.
Library’s Response
Heini Strand expressed her appreciation for the return, stating that people often want to do the right thing by returning library property. The library is considering making the well-preserved book, originally published in 1925, available to the public once again.
Historical Context
The book “Refugees” is a historical novel set in 17th-century France, authored by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, renowned for his Sherlock Holmes stories. Despite its age, the book’s condition remains remarkably good, a testament to the quality of older publications.