Library has seen mildew in past years

By Kelly L. Griffith
News Editor

On Monday, Oct. 11 1999, staff found mildew on several books in the Sampson-Livermore Library. Vice Chancellor and Provost for Academic Affairs Dr. Charles Jenkins and the Physical Plant were notified immediately.

Dr. Jenkins said, “I do not recall any particular problem related to mold other than a concern by library staff that there had been so much moisture that some mold had been found in some of the books in our library collection. As I recall now, the library staff worked with the appropriate maintenance staff to get it under control.”

After having an industrial hygienist inspect the mildew to make sure that no personnel would be harmed, library staff members cleaned the infected books in shifts during their workday over a six-week period. The library did not close its doors during the cleaning of the books.

According to the January 2000 issue of Library Lines, the Biology Department’s Dr. Marilu Santos examined the mildew. Dr. Santos said that although it was not toxic, the mildew could cause respiratory difficulties along with headaches.

Library Technician Assistant of Special Collection Carlene Cummings said, “It (the mildew) was treated by the library staff. We cleaned books with Lysol and brown paper towels.”

The university hired a temporary cleaning company and purchased a Phantom vacuum to aid in the cleaning process. However, staff continued to find outbreaks of mildew. Humidity problems were blamed for the various problems handled by the library staff.

Cummings said the library did not experience any problems until the university renovated the building in 1997.

The staff has experienced several affects from the mismanagement of the mildew. Library Clerk June Mills said several employees have suffered from recurring eye and respiratory problems. Sore and itchy eyes as well as frequent conjunctivitis have been reported among library personnel. At one point, seven of 19 library workers used inhalers. Many staff members also have reported cases of continuous pneumonia.

Employees have bought over-the-counter drugs and prescriptions to treat the effects of the mildew. The university has not offered to pay for medical bills.