Shared tools ledger

An original fictional information text for reading practice.

The garden group records each borrowed tool in a ledger beside the shed. The borrower writes the tool number, their name and the expected return date. Returning a tool involves more than placing it inside: the corresponding entry must also be crossed off.

At the monthly check, a discrepancy appeared between the ledger and the contents of the shed. The book recorded four hand forks as still borrowed, but all six were on the shelf. This did not show that a fork had been stolen. It showed that the two records did not agree.

The group decided to add a return column with space for the borrower’s initials. A clear record would make the next check easier.

Explain what the word “discrepancy” means as it is used in this text.