What must be done to fulfill the trusts (borrowed books and tapes) that could not be returned to their owners due to war conditions and the ensuing chaos?

Allah has commanded the return of trusts to their owners and has forbidden consuming wealth unjustly. The Prophet (peace be upon him) prohibited shedding the blood of Muslims, seizing their wealth, and violating their honor.

The questioner must search for the owners of the belongings he possesses. If it is impossible to reach them or their heirs, then he must return the books taken from mosques to the administration responsible for the mosques.

As for other belongings whose owners he despairs of reaching, he should give them away as charity on their behalf. If the owners appear and claim their belongings, he should give them the choice between approving the charity or receiving their value or an equivalent in return.