1995A&A...297L...1F

We report recent high resolution, high signal to noise ratio spectroscopic observations of the region around the Li I 6707.8 A line in two apparently old field late K-type main sequence stars. These stars exhibit a small equivalent width line at the same wavelength, within 10mA, as the Li I line. Lithium is expected to be fully depleted in old low mass stars, and therefore its presence in Hyades age (or older), 0.6M_sun stars is surprising. Given the richness and complexity of the spectra in these cool stars, the identification of the line with the Li I line is not obvious. We briefly discuss, using model atmospheres and synthetic spectra alternative explanations for this feature. Finally, we briefly look at the implications of the presence of lithium in low mass stars for current stellar interior models.