Library Staff Left Speechless By Book Return And Surprising Library Card

With a mixture of apprehension and determination, Hannon returned to the Osterhout Free Library, book in hand.

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• April 10, 2024

In the annals of library history, tales of overdue books are not uncommon. Yet, few stories rival that of John Hannon, a man from northeast Pennsylvania whose tardiness in returning a library book stretched over four decades.

Hannon's tale is not just about the late return of a book; it's a narrative of rediscovery, accountability, and ultimately, redemption. Growing up as an avid reader, Hannon frequented the Osterhout Free Library in Wilkes-Barre during his youth.

Like many bookworms of his time, the library was a sanctuary, a realm of knowledge waiting to be explored. Among the countless volumes he perused, one particular book left an indelible mark – "My Secrets of Playing Baseball" by Willie Mays.

In his twelfth year, Hannon borrowed Mays' book, perhaps hoping to glean some of the baseball legend's wisdom or simply indulge in his passion for the sport. However, life's twists and turns intervened, and the borrowed book slipped from his mind, becoming lost in the shuffle of time.

It wasn't until over four decades later, amidst a bout of household cleaning, that Hannon stumbled upon the long-forgotten book. Buried in a box labeled "John's Stuff," the book emerged, its cover dusty and its pages yellowed with age.

The sight triggered memories long buried, prompting Hannon to confront a decades-old oversight. The revelation sparked a moral dilemma.

Should he simply discard the book, allowing it to remain a relic of the past? Or should he heed the call of conscience and return it to its rightful place?

For Hannon, the choice was clear – he had to make amends. With a mixture of apprehension and determination, Hannon returned to the Osterhout Free Library, book in hand.

As he approached the librarian's desk, he was ready to face the consequences of his negligence. Would he be met with admonishment, a hefty fine, or perhaps even legal repercussions?

To his astonishment, the librarian's response was not one of reproach but of understanding. The overdue book, long relegated to the annals of forgotten loans, had resurfaced, bridging a temporal chasm of forty-five years.

Rather than dwelling on past transgressions, the librarian extended a gesture of forgiveness, recognizing Hannon's sincerity in righting his wrong.

As a 12-year-old in Wilkes-Barre, John Hannon borrowed "My Secrets of Playing Baseball" by Willie Mays from the Osterhout Free Library.

After tidying up, he found a dusty book in a box labeled "John's Stuff."

Hannon thinks the book was packed before the 1972 Agnes Flood and stayed there for almost 50 years.

Hannon found a book he forgot to return 45 years ago and decided to return it.

Returning the book, Hannon nervously awaited the overdue fees, realizing it might be a while before he borrows from the library again despite making amends.

John Hannon's story with his overdue library book from 45 years ago shows how he grew as a person. By returning the book, he didn't just do the right thing, but he also found peace by connecting with his past.

His experience teaches us that taking responsibility for our actions and giving second chances are important in life. It also shows how readers and libraries have a strong connection, keeping our shared stories alive.

As Hannon moves on without the weight of his overdue book, he sets an example of honesty and shows how we can always start fresh in life.

Damjan