Positioning of books

Mass fumigation: An attempt

A unique of the IGNCA library is the personal collection of eminent shoclars and artists like Acharya Hazari Prasad Dwivedi, Dr. suniti Kumar Chatterjee, Thakur Jaidev Singh, Lance Dane and several others.  the books in their peronsal collection have been either gifted to IGNCA or acquire by us.

A few months ago, yet another collection – of Ram Sharan Tripathi from Aligarh – was added to our library.  This collection had about 2500 books and a few hand written manuscripts on Sanskrit literature and Indology.  Unfortunately the collection was in a bad condition, had insect infestation and accumulation of dust.  It was hence dangerous and not advisable to shift this collection to the library.  After careful thought it was decided to adapt mass fumigation technique for the collection.  the entire collection was erected in inverted – ‘V’ position.  This position ensures the penetration of fumes uniformly through all pages.  The air conditioning ducts, openings and doors were carefully sealed.  The first step was to spray cyflothrin (brand name Solfi) in every corner of the room and surface of walls.  This was done to prevent insects from escaping to safety, live.

The next task was to create fumes for fumigation since ‘spraying’ or ‘brushing’ could result in stains on books and cause more damage.  Fumes of ‘cyper methrin’ were created and the room was sealed completely for 72 hours.

This work was done on an experimental basis.  After opening the seal, manuscripts were brought to conservation laboratory while the books are being accessioned.  Post operation observation indicated that there is complete eradication of insects.  Acknowledgments are due to Shri M.S. Tabrez, Pest Control Incorporated for support in the completion of the task.

By Ms. Ritu Jain