A Century-Old Book Returns to Saint Paul Library
From time to time, libraries lose track of borrowed books. But rarely does a book return over a century late. Yet, this incredible event happened in Saint Paul, Minnesota's public library in 2025.
The returned book was the 1902 edition of "Famous Composers vol. 2" by Nathan Haskell Dole. This captivating tome offers insight into the lives and works of prominent composers from the Baroque to the Romantic period, such as Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Chopin.
The book's daughter-discoverer found it during her mother's belongings sorting, and sent it through the state library system to Saint Paul. Library director Maureen Hartman confirmed the return to CNN.
Inspecting the book, it appears undamaged, held together by its original binding. It shows library stamps, handwritten annotations, and signs of wear. Seemingly unaware of its overdue status, it's a testament to the borrower's consideration for preserving it.
Considering the fragility of the book, Saint Paul Public Library Manager Maureen Hartman believes it shouldn't be re-lent. Instead, it may be showcased in the Saint Paul Collection—a part of the library dedicated to showcasing the city's history.
The brief period the book spent at the library is estimated based on dated stamps and a pocket card. From the records, the book was lent several times—likely the last time in 1919—but has not been returned since.
A Mayor's Joke
Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter couldn't help sharing a joke about the 100-year-late return. Before laws changed in 2019, a late book fee was locked at a penny per day. Applying this, the overdue Dole book would have accumulated a whopping $3,600 in fines.
Examining the pocket card reveals an intriguing aspect. Inscribed on it is an equation: 1928 – 1791. The library staff speculates that it might have been used to calculate the age of composer Giacomo Meyerbeer, who was born in 1791 and would have been 137 by 1928.
Rumors and Mysteries
Factors behind the book's prolonged absence and raison d'être behind the math problem remain enigmatic. "We may never know," laments Hartman.
Nonetheless, the strange turn of events generated buzz worldwide as news outlets discussed the quirky incident from Minnesota. Libraries, readers, and history enthusiasts collectively marveled at the tale, appreciating Saint Paul's role in preserving literary heritage.
Despite the low-tech return, it's noteworthy that a single overdue book left a significant mark in the annals of Saint Paul's history.
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The 100-year-overdue book was first reported on TikTok on February 3, 2025[4]. The details about the book's return are sketchy, but it is acknowledged that the Saint Paul library system was elated to have the book back after a 104-year delay.
The book's origin is not extensively documented, but it was borrowed in 1919 and returned in 2025. This event highlights the longevity of library collections and the occasional unveiling of long-lost items[4].
