Michigan couple avoids jail over lost Dr. Seuss library book

Tecumseh, Mich. (AP) – A Michigan couple who faced jail after they borrowed a novel and a Dr. Seuss book from a local library and held onto them long past their return dates will remain free. Cathy and Melvin Duren of Tecumseh were charged with failure to return rental property and a judge told them in April that they faced up to 93 days and a $500 fine. The charges arose because the Durens owed about $35 in late fees for “The Rome Prophecy,” borrowed from Tecumseh Public Library in April 2015, and because they lost “A Hatful of Seuss” borrowed by their teenage son in July 2014. The Daily Telegram of Adrian reports that the Lenawee County prosecutor’s office dismissed the misdemeanor charges Tuesday in exchange for the Durens paying the past-due book fees and the cost of replacing the Dr. Seuss book.