Bookish

George Washington owes $300,000 in library fines

New York City's oldest library says one of its ledgers shows that the first U.S. president has racked up 220 years' worth of late fees on two books he borrowed, but never returned.

Adjusted for inflation, that means Washington owes approximately $300,000 (£197,000).

One of the books was the 'Law of Nations,' which deals with international relations. The other was a volume of debates from the UK's own House of Commons.

Both books were due on November 2, 1789.

New York Society Library head librarian Mark Bartlett says the institution isn't seeking payment of the fines. 'But we would be very happy if we were able to get the books back,' Bartlett added.

The ledger also lists books being taken out by founding fathers Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr and John Jay - but they managed to return them.