Police in the United Kingdom have arrested a 51-year-old man over the theft of a Shakespeare First Folio that has been missing for ten years. The Folio was one of seven rare books stolen in December 1998 from Durham University in northeast England.
Durham Police arrested the man in Washington, Tyne and Wear (UK) Thursday night, two-weeks after he took the folio to the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C. for authentication.
The man, who arrived at the library without an appointment, claimed to be an international businessman who represented a private library in Cuba. The circumstances seemed suspicious to the Folger staff, who persuaded the man to leave the book with them while they conducted their research. During that time, the library’s experts identified the authenticity of the book and an independent expert established that it was the Durham copy. The Folger contacted the FBI, who in turn contacted the British Embassy in the United States and the Durham police.
Garland Scott, a spokesperson for the Folger, said, “A great book is found and will be going home, and that’s great news for Shakespeare lovers and rare book lovers everywhere. We’re happy we could help.”
Bill Bryson, Chancellor of Durham University and author of a recent biography on Shakespeare, said, “This is not only wonderful news for Durham University but for all Shakespeare’s scholars and fans around the world, of which I am most definitely one. Like Shakespeare himself, this book is a national treasure giving a rare and beautiful snapshot of Britain’s incredible literary heritage. I’ll certainly be joining the crowds who will be eagerly welcoming it home.”
The Shakespeare First Folio was acquired by John Cosin, former Bishop of Durham, and was part of the library he established in Durham in 1669. The current estimated value of the book is $2.5 million.
The 1998 theft occurred during an exhibition in the university’s library charting the progress of English literature from the Middle Ages to the 20th Century. According to university officials, the theft appeared to have been undertaken by professionals with long-term international connections in the art world.
Other stolen items included a 15th century manuscript with a fragment of a poem written by Geoffrey Chaucer, two works by the 10th century poet Aelfric, an edition of Beowulf printed in 1815 and a 1612 book of maps and poetry.
Police have confirmed that they discovered other antique books and documents when they arrested the man. They could not confirm whether any of the university’s other stolen books were recovered.
The folio will remain in the care of the Folger until it can safely be returned to Durham University. The school says it plans to make the folio available to staff, students for study albeit under strict security regime.
Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, Professor Chris Higgins, said, “Our security has been very significantly reviewed and enhanced to the highest standards since the theft ten years ago and we are confident the First Folio will be safe when it arrives back in Durham.”
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