**BREAKING: Library Stunned as Mystery Person Returns 51-Year-Old Overdue Book, Sends Shockwaves Through Nation**
FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA – In a bizarre incident that has left librarians and bookworms alike scratching their heads, a copy of Daphne du Maurier’s classic novel “Rebecca” was returned to the Fargo Public Library – a whopping 51 years after it was due.
According to library officials, the book, which was checked out on February 27, 1972, was mailed back to the library on Tuesday, with no note or indication of who might have returned it. The book, which was reportedly in remarkably good condition considering its age and prolonged absence, was greeted with a mixture of shock, amazement, and utter bewilderment.
“We’re still trying to process this,” said Library Director, Karen Olson. “I mean, 51 years is a long time to be holding onto a book. We’re just glad to have it back, but we’re also curious – who could have held onto it for so long? Was it a collector, a hoarder, or just someone who really, really loved ‘Rebecca’?”
The book, which was originally checked out by a now-deceased patron, was due back on March 1, 1972. Assuming a standard library fine of $0.10 per day, the total fine for the book would be a staggering $18,250.
Despite the hefty fine, library officials have announced that they will not be pursuing the matter further, citing “extenuating circumstances” and a general sense of wonder at the absurdity of it all.
In a statement, the library said, “We’re just glad to have ‘Rebecca’ back on the shelves, even if it is a bit… late. We’re considering adding a ‘returned-from-the-dead’ section to our catalog, just for books like this.”
The book is now available for checkout, and library patrons are advised to return it promptly – lest they incur the wrath of the library’s long-suffering staff.
