Strandfontein Library returns couple's long-lost wedding album

THERE was a heartwarming twist in the tale for a couple who lost their wedding album 20 years ago. 

This remarkable story began during a routine tidying session at Strandfontein library, when staff stumbled upon the dusty album, initially unaware of its significance.

Previously located but not returned, the album was kept in the storeroom in the hopes that the couple would one day retrieve  it. 

As time passed without any sign of the bride or groom, it became a long-forgotten relic of a joyful occasion. 

However, recently, library staff reignited their efforts to locate the owners after sharing photos from the album with patrons who frequented the library.

Through this outreach, a local library-goer recognised a church in the photographs where the marriage had taken place, and remembered the couple’s names: Nico and Tania Manuel. 

With this vital clue, the staff contacted the church secretary, who managed to trace Nico to another province, delivering the much-anticipated news.

Nico was initially set to collect the album at a later date as a surprise for his wife, Tania, but the excitement proved too overwhelming. 

He immediately called Tania, who rushed to the library to retrieve their precious memories. Both were overwhelmed with joy upon seeing their wedding photos, having long wondered about the album's fate, believing it had been lost when they donated books to the library over 20 years ago.

In gratitude, Tania expressed her heartfelt thanks in a comment book at the library desk, stating, “Thank you to the beautiful people @ Strandfontein Library for holding on to our precious memories. Much appreciated. Love, Nico & Tania.”

Francine Higham, the Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, commended the library team for their exceptional efforts. 

She said: “Library staff went the extra mile not only to hold on to the album but to ensure it’s returned to its owners two decades later. 

“We’re glad Nico and Tania’s memories of their special day have been restored, and I applaud the staff for going above and beyond to solve the mystery. 

“Who knows… this could even have the makings of a plot for a novel.”