No penalty for man who returned UBC library book 64 years late

An Edgewood, B.C., man is receiving praise for his remarkable act of returning a library book to the University of B.C. nearly 65 years after he borrowed it. Robert Murray, now 83 years old, borrowed a 1931 edition of Camping and Woodcraft: Handbook for vacation campers and for travelers in the wilderness by Horace Kephart in 1960 while studying electrical engineering at UBC. The book, filled with practical advice from the turn of the century, became one of his favorites due to its valuable insights into wilderness survival.

After keeping the book for decades, Murray decided to return it to the university along with a heartfelt letter, a $100 cheque to cover any late fees, and a newspaper clipping of a similar return story in Prince George. Although UBC had eliminated late fees in 2020, Murray’s generous donation would be used to cover other outstanding fees at the university.

Murray described the book as a “treasure” that had potentially saved his and his son’s lives during a backcountry excursion. He purchased a new copy of the book on Amazon and emphasized the importance of the lessons it contained, distinguishing between true expertise and mere imitation.

Upon receiving Murray’s package, University Librarian Susan Parker was astonished by the unique situation, as the book was returned in pristine condition despite its long absence. She commended Murray’s care for the nearly century-old book and confirmed that it would be reintroduced into circulation for others to enjoy.

Parker advised individuals in similar situations not to wait as long as Murray did to return borrowed books, encouraging them to communicate with their library if concerned about late fees. She emphasized the library’s desire to share its resources with everyone and promote a welcoming environment for patrons.

Murray shared an emotional anecdote about how the book had helped him and his son navigate a challenging situation in the wilderness, reinforcing the value of the practical advice it offered. Despite getting lost and facing adverse weather conditions, Murray’s knowledge from the book enabled them to avoid hypothermia and safely return home.

In his letter to UBC, Murray praised the book as a valuable resource for studying North American wilderness living, underscoring its enduring relevance and educational value. His thoughtful gesture serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of literature and the importance of returning borrowed items to their rightful place.