Rodent feces have been identified as a carrier of Hantavirus, which has caused a number of deaths in the western United States within the last few years. Some cockroaches are suspected of being disease carriers, and can cause allergic reactions in humans. Food and drink are accidents waiting to happen Spills can cause permanent and unsightly stains, and the moisture is a breeding ground for molds and mildews. Mold and mildew can have permanent, sometimes life-threatening, effects on the health of anyone handling the books. Extermination can be very expensive and may employ hazardous treatments.
Prevention is the most effective, and least toxic, method of pest control.
Replacing damaged books, carpet and reupholstering furniture are costs that compete with our funds for new materials for the collection, in both print and electronic formats. Libraries are repositories of human knowledge. Libraries exist to preserve and provide access to the collected knowledge of our past. Our collection is worth millions of dollars, much of it irreplaceable at any price. Please respect our mission and assist us in pursuing it.