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MOLD AND MILDEW
All,
I'm not a conservator either, and many of you probably already know this
as a matter of course, but I thought I should mention that many
mycologists and conservators advise librarians (and others) never to try
to clean mold because of its potential toxicity. Certain kinds of mold
can compromise one's immune system permanently and devastatingly, and
there's no way to tell what kind(s) of mold you have without consulting a
mycologist (you can find a professional to diagnose your mold through the
AIC:
http://palimpsest.stanford.edu/aic/).
Especially active mold, which is usually fuzzy or slimy (dormant mold
will generally be dry and powdery), should never be messed with. There's
a good description of the damage mold can cause at
http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/oehas/mold.html
However, I understand that most folks have limited funds with which to
engage a mycologist, and need to seek a cleaning solution now. Whatever
the consensus is on *how* to clean, whenever you clean any kind of mold
you should contact your facilities staff to fit you for a respirator. The
paper dust masks apparently do nothing to protect you from mold spores.
Respirators are small devices that are fitted to your face and are will
keep you from inhaling the spores. Always wear latex gloves. Avoid
cleaning in carpeted areas, as the mold will become trapped in the carpet
and can cause more problems later; if possible, clean outside or in a
well-ventilated area. Try not to expose yourself to too much mold.
Cleaning and salvaging mold-infested books is a tricky, dangerous
business and should never be taken lightly.
Also, keep in mind that no matter how much mold you clean off books, if
you don't have stable, low temperatures and relative humidity (and using
small, portable dehumidifiers to try to lower RH doesn't generally work),
the mold will probably come back. There's a reason they call it
"dormant mold" instead of "dead mold."
Try
http://palimpsest.stanford.edu/bytopic/mold/
for a comprehensive list of sources and information. Also, concise guidelines are given at: http://preserve.harvard.edu/guidelines/mold.html.
Best,
Amy Filiatreau
Amy Filiatreau
Archivist
Rare Books and Special Collections
Tarlton Law Library 6.219A
University of Texas at Austin
512-232-3802
afiliatreau@mail.law.utexas.edu