Microscopic Fungi Found in the Libraries of Vilnius and Factors Affecting their Development

Abstract

In the period 1995–2001 mycological investigations were conducted in the libraries situated in different buildings in the city of Vilnius. A total of 174 fungal species ascribed to 52 genera have been isolated from the premises of the libraries and identified. Mitosporic fungi (previously Fungi imperfecti) made up the vast majority of the isolated fungi. It was found out that the mycological state of the books depended largely on the condition of the building, its maintenance, location and the type of ventilation system. The main factors, which predetermined mycological pollution of the buildings and the level of contamination of the books, were installations in and overall maintenance of the premises, temperature, humidity, air movement, and the number of visitors. Age of books, materials used for producing them, extent of mechanical damage, intensity of handling and other associated factors were pertinent to the microbiological pollution and the state of the books. Allergenicity and the ability to produce, accumulate or release volatile toxic secondary metabolites into the library surroundings are characteristics of the fungi found in library premises and in books. Such factors may pose a risk to the health of staff and visitors.