In our new normal of frequent handwashing and avoiding of direct contact with high-touch surfaces (think lift buttons and door handles), some library users may wonder about the safety of library books.
At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, books used to be "quarantined" for 72 hours after being returned. Later, with the use of a UV light disinfection wand, returned books were sanitised one by one. Now, with the acquisition of a double-layer book steriliser, which can disinfect up to 12 books at once, the turn-around time is shortened. All books which are returned are disinfected before they are placed back on the shelves.
Let's find out how books that are returned to the library are made safe for the next borrower.
A higher capacity book steriliser that can disinfect up to 12 books at a time
Firstly, books returned to the library will be collected from the service counter or book drop for disinfecting every hour. All staff handling the books are required to wear gloves. Before the start of the sterilising process, staff will check the condition of the books and sort them according to their locations on the shelf.
Staff wearing gloves while handling all returned books.
After sorting, the books will be placed onto the hanging racks insider the book steriliser.
Books are arranged inside the steriliser for maximum exposure.
Each book is hung from the middle to maintain balance on the hanging rack. Opening the book in this way also allows the machine to disinfect the book covers and inner pages completely.
Books are kept open so that pages as well as covers can be sterilised.
Once all the books have been placed properly inside the machine, the door will be closed to start the sterilising process. The process takes about 90 seconds and can kill up to 99.9% of known germs.
Sterilising in progress
Finally, after all the books have been sterilised, our staff will bring the books back to the shelves.
Freshly disinfected books ready for shelving.
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