URBANA, Ill. (AP) — A former employee of the University of Illinois has been sentenced to two years of probation for stealing rare books from the school’s music library.

Thomas McGeary of Champaign pleaded guilty before Champaign County Circuit Judge Heidi Ladd to the theft of two rare books worth more than $500. Assistant State’s Attorney Alex Boyd told Ladd that McGeary stole the books for money and was seeking revenge against the university because he believed it wronged him.

Under Tuesday’s sentencing, the 71-year-old McGeary can avoid a conviction if he completes probation without additional criminal activity.