Kiama: (RightNow) A rare book lost 150 years ago has been returned to the public library in the coastal city of Kiama, Australia. The discovery has surprised both the library management and local residents.

According to foreign media reports, the rare book was returned to the library last week. It was published in 1858 and was issued from Kiama Library in 1872.

Library manager Michelle Hudson stated that the book was found in a sealed fireplace at the home of local resident Ross Simmons. The book suffered water damage but retains its significance.

This book serves as a reminder of the library laws of the 1870s, which imposed fines for overdue books. The current value of the fine would be approximately 28,000 Australian dollars.

It is noteworthy that the book, titled “Antiquities of Athens,” was part of Kiama Library’s initial collection. The library management has announced that the book will now be permanently preserved.