Family returns nearly 100-year overdue books to Kentucky library

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – A family returned overdue books to a Kentucky library after nearly 100 years.

Miriam Perelmuter’s grandchildren can only imagine what she’d say today.

The Russian Jewish immigrant checked two books out of the Louisville Free Public Library 98 years ago.

The first was a Russian-English language guide.

Mirian Perelmuter’s grandson, Mark Perelmuter, says, “The number of books she checked out as an immigrant that could barely speak the language is a testament to what this can do to lift people up.”

A second book of musical composers was checked out by Miriam Perelmuter’s son Morris, later known as Morris King.

His son, Michael King, side by side with his cousins, handed the books back Monday.

He says his father would be happy they were together and that the book was returned, as well as knowing his name was continuing.

Michael King’s father was born in 1908 in Ukraine. They moved to the United States shortly thereafter before landing in Louisville, where King quickly developed a love for books and music. He has the receipt to prove it.

Morris King was enamored with music, making a living with his violin.

Generations later, it’s a shared passion.

“Whenever we get together, we still play classical music together,” Mark Perelmuter says.

In his grandmother’s native Yiddish tongue, Michael King says in a way, today is what life is all about.

Thankfully, no late fees will be charged.

The library stopped collecting delinquent fees in 2021.

The books will head to a special collection behind glass.