Mold Prevention

Mold prevention is a conservation activity that is performed in libraries to protects books and other materials from deterioration caused by mold growth. Mold prevention consists of different methods, such as chemical treatments, careful environmental control, and manual cleaning. Preservationists utilize one or a combination of these methods to combat the universal problem of mold spores in library collections.

Due to its resilient nature, mold prevention has become an important activity among preservation librarians. Mold reproduces by releasing spores into the air. It becomes active after being in a dormant state and responds to fluctuating temperature, air flow, and humidity within the surrounding environment. Library holdings have been deemed vulnerable since mold digests paper and other organic materials that collection items consist of. Moisture in the atmosphere contributes to irreparable damage caused by mold growth.

Read more about Mold Prevention:  Chemical Treatment, Environmental Control, Alternative Methods, See Also

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