A book on Athenian architecture, borrowed from an Australian library approximately 150 years ago, has been returned after its discovery in a fireplace.
The volume, "The Antiquities of Athens," was found in a tea chest that had been hidden away for decades. The chest was uncovered about 30 years ago during renovations at a property, and the books within, including the overdue one, were given to a person named Simmons for safekeeping. It was only recently that Simmons examined the books more closely, discovering a Kiama Library stamp on the inside cover and the library's original borrowing conditions.
According to the historical conditions detailed inside the book, library members could borrow only one book at a time unless six people in the same household could read, in which case three books were permitted. Individuals who were intoxicated were barred from borrowing. Members returning books past their due date faced a fine of three pence per week.
Kiama Library staff calculated that the fine for the 150-year overdue book would amount to approximately £97. In today's currency, this would be AU$28,000 (US$20,000, £15,000), factoring in inflation. However, the fine has been waived for the Simmons family.
Library officials have noted the significant attention the unusual find has generated. It is believed that an apprentice stonemason who worked on the Houses of Parliament in London originally borrowed the book.