Booklice are very common in libraries, paper storage warehouses, packing and shipping warehouses that contain a lot of cardboard boxes, accounting and billing offices, large secretarial offices, and other places in which large quantities of paper are stored or used on a daily basis. In houses, these small insects can be found infesting cereals, grits, flour, and grain in the kitchen or basement. They can be very common in the late summer when temperatures and relative humidity are high. The most favorable environment for booklice is one of high temperature and relative humidity. The eggs are laid singly or in clusters and are often covered with a silken web.
Most species pass through six nymphal stages.
Time between egg and adult can range from 30 to 60 days, depending on the environment. They rarely cause any damage beyond being a nuisance to homeowners. They are usually present in small numbers and go unnoticed. However, when conditions are favorable, and there is adequate food available, booklice can become numerous and a nuisance. Adjusting the environment is the first step in controlling booklice.