Chicago man returns overdue library book checked out in 1974
Chicago Man Raises Money for Charity After Overdue Library Book Mishap
A Chicago man is turning a simple mistake into a positive opportunity after forgetting to return an overdue library book to his childhood library in Warren, Michigan.
Chuck Hildebrandt, now 63, rediscovered the book “Baseball’s Zaniest Stars” on his shelf, which he had checked out in 1974 at the age of 13 due to his love for baseball.
“As a kid, I was a baseball fanatic, especially during the 1968 Tiger’s pennant run. Even at a young age, I couldn’t get enough of the sport,” shared Hildebrandt.
Realizing his mistake a few years ago, Hildebrandt made a plan to return the book in person on its 50th anniversary. However, upon reaching out to the library, he was informed that they could not accept the book as his information had been purged from their system.
Library Director Oksana Urban found humor in the situation, revealing that Hildebrandt’s name had been removed along with the book.
Despite being able to keep the book without fines, Hildebrandt felt guilty and estimated that the fines could have amounted to over $4,500.
To make amends, Hildebrandt decided to raise the amount of the estimated fines through a GoFundMe campaign to support the non-profit organization Reading is Fundamental, which helps children from low-income families discover the joy of reading.
With the book back on his shelf in Chicago, Hildebrandt reflects on the lasting impact of certain books and the importance of giving back to the community.
