The Story of a 64-Year-Long Library Loan: A Tale of Love and Responsibility
A Borrower’s Journey: Robert Murray and the Beloved Book
Robert Murray, a former student of the University of British Columbia (UBC), found himself in a unique situation when he realized he had held onto a library book for an extraordinary 64 years. The book in question, Camping and Woodcraft: A Handbook for Vacation Campers and for Travelers in the Wilderness, originally published in 1906, became a cherished companion for Murray after he first borrowed it in 1960. The book, authored by Horace Kephart, was a treasure trove of practical outdoor knowledge that Murray valued deeply, often referring to it as “gold.”
The Discovery and the Return
Fast-forward to January 2024, when Susan Parker, a librarian at UBC, received a mysterious package in the mail. Inside, she found the long-overdue book, carefully packaged and accompanied by a heartfelt letter from Murray. In his letter, Murray expressed his deep affection for the book, which had been a constant source of inspiration and guidance throughout his life. He detailed how the book had even played a crucial role in saving his son’s life during a camping trip, where its advice on setting up shelter and starting a fire proved invaluable.
A Life of Practical Wisdom
Murray’s attachment to Camping and Woodcraft stemmed from its practical, real-world advice, which he found far superior to other books of the era. The book’s insights, grounded in genuine outdoor experience, were instrumental in shaping his love for the wilderness and his ability to navigate challenging situations. Murray’s story highlights the enduring value of well-crafted literature and the significant role libraries play in providing access to such knowledge.
The Path to Redemption
Murray had always intended to return the book but was inspired to take action after reading a newspaper article about someone who had returned a similarly overdue copy of the same book. This prompted him to ensure the book’s safe return to UBC. Despite his initial plan to have his family return the book after his passing, a health scare motivated him to handle the task himself. Along with the book, Murray included a $100 check as a gesture of goodwill, acknowledging the extended loan period.
A New Chapter for the Book
Upon its return, the book underwent minor repairs and will soon be restored to its place on the shelves of UBC’s library, where it will join over 8.5 million other printed works. Librarian Susan Parker commended Murray for his role as an “ideal steward” of the book, ensuring its excellent condition over the years. The story serves as a testament to the lasting impact libraries have on individuals’ lives, offering resources that support lifelong learning and personal interests.
A Message to Book Lovers
While Murray’s tale is one of love and responsibility, Parker urged others to avoid such lengthy borrowing. “If you do have an overdue book, you don’t have to wait that long,” she advised. For his part, Murray has since purchased a new copy of Camping and Woodcraft, ensuring he can continue to cherish its wisdom without depriving others of the same opportunity. This heartwarming story remind us all of the importance of libraries and the enduring power of a good book.
