Worcester News

After 51 years, rare book returns to Worcester Public Library

  • Posted by Worcester News Nov 7 - Filed in News - #Worcester  #Worcester Public Library  - 2,336 views


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    WORCESTER — A library book checked out 51 years ago has made its way back to its rightful place on the shelves of the Worcester Public Library.

    The book was returned thanks to the efforts of a sharp-eyed Boston resident and the Cambridge Public Library.

    W.P.L.’s 1899 copy of "The Early Work of Aubrey Beardsley" vanished from circulation in 1973, with a May 22nd due date stamped on its card.

    Decades later, the book was found in Boston and delivered to the Cambridge Public Library, where staff reached out to ensure it returned to Worcester.

    Published the same year as it was added to Worcester's collection, the rare book features illustrations by Aubrey Beardsley, a renowned English artist known for his bold and often provocative Art Nouveau-inspired designs. Though Beardsley’s life was cut short in 1898, his influence on modern art movements, including Art Nouveau, remains celebrated today.

    The Worcester Public Library expressed gratitude to the Cambridge library and the Boston resident for ensuring the book found its way back.

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