Long-lost library book from 1943 unearthed following an 82-year journey - Rare 1943 library book, missing for 82 years, resurfaces
In an unexpected turn of events, a 1940s-era parenting self-help guide titled Your Child, His Family, and Friends by Frances Bruce Strain has returned to the San Antonio Public Library, 82 years overdue. The book was originally checked out in July 1943 and was due 28 days later.
The book made its journey from Texas to Oregon, having been borrowed by a grandmother who worked at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City before being transferred. The book was found among the belongings of her grandson, who passed away, and was sent back to the library along with a heartfelt letter.
The sender humorously noted his hope that no late fees would be charged, but fortunately for him, the San Antonio Public Library abolished late fees for overdue books four years ago.
Upon receiving the book, the library described it as being in good condition. It was temporarily displayed in the Central Library lobby before being donated to the Friends of San Antonio Public Library used bookstore. The proceeds from the sales will benefit the library.
Frances Bruce Strain, the book's author, was an early 20th-century writer specialising in family and child development topics. Details about her are somewhat scarce, but her work offers a fascinating glimpse into the child-rearing and family relationship advice typical of that time.
The book, now a piece of library history, will be on display in the lobby of the San Antonio Public Library before being donated to the Friends of San Antonio Public Library. The donated copy will then be sold in the "Book Cellar", the second-hand bookstore located in the basement of the Central Library.
This return of the long-lost book serves as a reminder of the enduring value of literature and the connections that can be made through the shared experience of reading. It's a story that underscores the importance of libraries as community hubs and the role they play in preserving our collective history.
I'm not going to be able to talk to you about my lifestyle, home-and-garden, books, or entertainment, as I've been engrossed in reading the 1940s-era parenting self-help guide, Your Child, His Family, and Friends by Frances Bruce Strain, which I discovered in the Second-hand bookstore of the Friends of San Antonio Public Library. The proceeds from the sales of such books help support the library, providing valuable resources for many.
