Overdue book returned to Long Island library after nearly 54 years

SMITHTOWN, N.Y. (PIX11) — Library workers on Long Island were in shock when a Dr. Seuss book was recently returned after more than five decades.

A couple walked into the Smithtown Library last month with a copy of “Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories,” according to a post on Facebook. Library workers said the book was first checked out in 1966 and a closer look at the check-out card shows it was last checked out on April 30, 1970.

“With the going rate of fines in those days, this book should have almost $2,000 in late fees — don’t worry, we let this one slide 😜” the Facebook post concluded.

Jonathan Rizk is a digital journalist who has covered local news in the New York City and Washington D.C. areas. He has been with PIX11 since August 2022. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.

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