Indoor Environment Notebook:Salvaging moldy books

Indoor Environment Notebook:Salvaging moldy books Yet another way to attack moldy books, and a warning about the improper use of air conditioning systems in the Midwest. start quote///

...The problem results from the improper operation of air-conditioning systems. The mostly-empty building is cooled to below 75oF, and then the system is shut down when administrators go home at the end of the day. Then warm, moist air enters the building passively and comes into contact with relatively cool surfaces. This can result in very high relative humidity, condensation, and even puddling. It produces optimum conditions for mold growth.

Mold especially loves to grow on much-handled books. It loves “hand grease” as one can see from the pattern of mold growth on infested books. Penicillium and/or Aspergillus are the dominant mold types present...

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All infested surfaces should be vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum. Follow this up by wet wiping all infested surfaces with isopropyl alcohol or 70% ethanol. Ventilate the room with outside air by opening windows (if openable windows are present) to minimize the buildup of vapors....