Book returned to library in New York over 50 years overdue

Jonathan Rizk
·1 min read
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SUFFOLK COUNTY, N.Y. (WPIX) – A library on Long Island, New York, was in shock when a Dr. Seuss book was returned after more than five decades.

A couple walked into the Smithtown Library with a copy of “Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories,” according to one of the library’s recent social media posts. The library said the book was first checked out in 1966, though a closer look at the check-out card appeared to show it was last checked out on April 30, 1970.

A library on Long Island was in shock when a Dr. Seuss book was returned after more than five decades. (Credit: The Smithtown Library/Facebook)
A library on Long Island was in shock when a Dr. Seuss book was returned after more than five decades. (Credit: The Smithtown Library/Facebook)

Close to $2,000 in late fees have accrued since the book was last checked out, but the library said it will waive them.

“Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories,” written by Dr. Seuss — real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel — was released in 1958.

According to Random House Children’s Books, the book presents three modern fables, featuring “tales about greed (‘Yertle the Turtle’), vanity (‘Gertrude McFuzz’), and pride (‘The Big Brag’).”

“In no other book does a small burp have such political importance!” said Random House, referring to a part of the first story’s plot.

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