Theres something new on library shelves - bed bugs.Libraries love bookworms, but they are not so sure about book bugs. Just like hotels, airplanes, movie theaters, hospitals, office buildings, retail stores, and homes where bed bugs lurk, now the tiny creatures are showing up at the library. The revelation that libraries are grappling with bed bugs comes as dozens of libraries across the country are reporting bed bug encounters. Bed bugs have been spotted in book drops, library chairs, shelves and, of course, books. In 2009 The Denver Public library had one particularly notorious example of a patron returning a number of infested antique books which caused the books to be destroyed to prevent further spread of the infestation.
There have been quite a few libraries that reported bed bug problems recently. New Westminster and Taylor Library in Michigan are the most recent victims. Libraries now need to become educated on bed bugs to prevent the spread of infestations to patrons.
Taylor Library Video
Tips for libraries on preventing bed bug infestations:
Train library staff to recognize bed bugs. Libraries need to take a more proactive approach to deal with the epidemic.Bed bugs by nature are reclusive, but they do have tell-tale signs that can be easily identified by a well-trained staff.When inspecting books, library staff should look for live bugs and dark brownish to black spots (fecal stains).
Routinely Check all Returned Books and quarantine contaminated books that are suspected of having bed bugs. Seal the book in a plastic bag and isolate until it is deemed safe.Remember an adult bed bug can live over a year without feeding, so be sure all bugs are dead before placing the book back in circulation.
Make a Plan once bed bugs are found. Industry experts recommend that bed bug eradication treatments in public establishments should be performed by a pest management professional.The library should be checked periodically for bed bugs and their tell-tale signs by the custodial staff. They also should consider canine inspections which have shown to be up to 97% accurate in detecting bed bugs.
Check Upholstered Furniture Regularly and when feasible replace with non-fabric furniture. Bed Bugs have recently been found nesting in upholstered chairs in libraries in Colorado and Arizona.
Heating Contaminated Items to a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit for at least an hour is an effective method of killing bed bugs, their larva and eggs. Portable heaters manufactured by PackTite are designed specifically for this purpose and are an effective way to quarantine and gently heat books, magazines, clothing and any suspected object.Additionally, a pest control professional can advise on larger heat systems for libraries.
Monitor Book Return Areas with active monitor that use heat and/or CO2.Monitors are inexpensive and will detect bed bugs within days of their arrival, before they multiply and spread.
