The Associated Press reports that Oscar-winning actor, Tom Hanks was honored at the Elie Wiesel Foundation For Humanity gala that was held on Wednesday at the New York Public Library. The modest actor, who was awarded for his charitable endeavors, thought the library was calling to ask him to return some books he borrowed in 1977.

Tom Hanks and wife Rita Wilson made a dazzling appearance on the red carpet at the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity on Wednesday. The actor had many reasons to be present at the event given that he was honored for the constant preoccupation he has shown towards charitable work. Despite this, the Oscar-winning star humbly declared that he thought he was being invited at the New York Public Library to return some books he borrowed in 1977. In fact, he was very surprised to hear about the honor and even asked why they were giving him the award.

Jokes aside, the actor declared that being able to take part in charitable endeavors is just as important to him as acting. The two activities are related to one another as Hanks admitted that he wouldn’t have been able to get involved in altruistic events if it hadn’t been for the parts he played in successful movies. However, being able to help other people is much more important for Tom than anything else.

According to the 56-year-old actor, the education he received from his parents influenced him to become a better person. Although he works in a highly ridiculed industry, Hanks confessed that he still finds the power to wake up every morning and try to make the world a better place.

The American society, which is centered on common good, was another factor determining Tom to support philanthropic work. Despite this, he thinks it is important for the American government to support the arts as they can contribute to people’s well-being. His last suggestion was that government officials should provide help for people who can’t afford medical insurance.