Psocids or “Book Lice”: a Warning of Dampness – CCI Notes 3/4
Source: Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI)
Book lice, called psocids, are members of the insect order Psocoptera. For cultural collections, the presence of psocids sounds an alarm indicating unacceptably damp conditions — conditions that promote mould growth on objects and in buildings, which in turn damages collections and human health. The most reliable way to eliminate psocids and moulds is to dehumidify the building and affected objects.
