A library in Australia received a surprising historical return after a book that had been borrowed around 150 years ago was discovered hidden inside a house fireplace.
The Kiama Library in New South Wales said a family returned the long-lost book after finding it during renovation work at their home.
The book was discovered inside a tea desk that had been built into the fireplace structure, where it had remained hidden for generations.
Titled The Antiquities of Athens, the book was published in 1858 and is believed to have been borrowed when the Kiama Public Library operated from the old Kiama School of Arts between 1872 and 1890.
Library officials said the exact borrowing date could no longer be determined, but estimated the book had been missing for approximately 150 years.
Under the library’s former rules, the overdue charges would have amounted to almost $20,000, although the library no longer imposes late fees on borrowed materials.
Despite its age, the book was found to be in remarkably good condition and will not return to public circulation.
Instead, the historic publication will be preserved and displayed as part of Kiama Library’s collection of significant items.
