Library lets late fees fly for Hudson River pilot
By Associated Press
Feb 2, 2009 6:44 PM CST

Hero pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger is every librarian's hero, too.

The US Airways pilot splash landed his jetliner in the Hudson River on Jan. 15, and everyone on board escaped safely. But left in the cargo hold was a book Sullenberger had checked out from California State University, Fresno, through his local library near Danville.

Library officials say Sullenberger asked for an extension and waiver of overdue fees. The pilot and his spokeswoman didn't return messages seeking comment Monday.

The librarians say they were struck by Sullenberger's sense of responsibility and did him one better: they're waiving all fees and dedicating the replacement book to him.

The book's subject? Professional ethics.