Natural ingredients for a bacteria-free library collection. (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lobo, Antonette Mohan; Tikam, Madhuri
• Other Names: Altenhöner Reinhard guest-editor.; Nadal Jacob guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: IFLA journal. Volume 48:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 349
• Page End: 351
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: Library preservation -- microbial contamination -- natural preservatives; Comparative librarianship -- Periodicals; International librarianship -- Periodicals; Library cooperation -- Periodicals; Library science -- Periodicals; 020.9
• DOI: 10.1177/03400352211023070
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0340-0352

Abstract

Fumigation is widely used for getting rid of pests. This treatment makes use of chemicals. However, if repeated applications are not made, the insects and pests tend to breed again. This treatment also does not take care of the growth of microorganisms that feed on organic substances. India has a warm and humid climate that encourages the growth of microorganisms. Indian tradition makes use of various herbs and spices to preserve reading materials. This study was therefore undertaken to view the effect of locally available herbs and spices on paper. Experiments were carried out in a college laboratory. This was done with the objective of studying the inhibitory action of neem, cinnamon, cloves, pepper and a mixture of all of these herbs and spices.