Prevention and treatment of mold in library collections with an emphasis on tropical climates: A RAMP study: 3. Implications for library materials: 3.1 Vulnerability of materials

Prevention and treatment of mold in library collections with an emphasis on tropical climates: A RAMP study

3. Implications for library materials

3.1 Vulnerability of materials

		3.1.1 Paper - cellulose, sizes, coatings
		3.1.2 Bookcloth
		3.1.3 Leather
		3.1.4 Adhesives
		3.1.5 Film and related materials

3.1 Vulnerability of materials

In order to prevent mold growth, or to treat it effectively once it has developed, it is not necessary to identify which of the thousands of genera of mold may be involved. It is however necessary to understand the basic structure of the mold organism and the manner in which it takes advantage of favorable conditions. This means that librarians must assume responsibility for a wide range of knowledge concerning the materials in their collections as well as the nature of the threat in order to make informed decisions regarding appropriate treatments.