Bleaching is caused by overexposure to natural and artificial light. Immediate actions to be taken include switching off lights in unused areas, putting protective material in front of glass fronted storage cases, and limiting exposure of materials to light. Additional preventive measures include the use of light sleeves to filter artificial light. Particulate pollutants - Visible as dust and grime. The result of harmful impurities in urban air, such as contaminating aerosols and pollutants, these may leave deposits which cause abrasion or chemical deterioration.
Affected materials are rather unpleasant to handle.
Short term treatments include such housekeeping measures as vacuuming, dusting, and closing windows. Long term measures include the use of air filters. In addition to the actual creatures, traces of their presence are visible as holes, tunnels, shredded paper, and similar effects. Insects and vermin are attracted both by the organic composition of library materials and by residues of food and drink. The immediate action needed is to identify the level and extent of current activity.