When Libraries Were Once Suspected of Spreading Illness
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Chapter 1: Historical Context of Disease Perception
The understanding of diseases and their prevention has undergone significant transformation throughout history. Despite our advancements, there remains a vast amount we still do not comprehend about the human body and its ailments. As society has evolved, we’ve experienced a mix of accurate insights and misguided beliefs. One particularly amusing episode occurred over a century ago, when the passing of a librarian in the Midwest triggered a panic that books were transmitting dangerous diseases.
This peculiar fear centered on library books, which were uniquely singled out as potential carriers of contagion. In 2019, Joseph Hayes from Smithsonian Magazine recounted how a wave of hysteria erupted in 1895 following the tuberculosis-related death of Jessie Allen, a Nebraska librarian. Headlines spread rapidly, warning that library materials might serve as breeding grounds for germs, potentially exposing readers to a variety of illnesses.
Following Allen’s demise, an article published in the Library Journal in October 1895 reflected on the implications of her death:
“The passing of Miss Jessie Allan is particularly tragic, not only due to her esteemed reputation but also because it has reignited discussions surrounding the risk of contagious diseases being transmitted through library books.”
Section 1.1: Medical Community's Role in the Hysteria
At that time, instead of alleviating public concern, physicians inadvertently fueled the panic. Many displayed uncertainty about the transmission of germs via books, while others acknowledged the possibility, further intensifying fears. Given the prevalence of diseases capable of causing outbreaks, it is easy to understand why such unknowns could evoke widespread anxiety. The apprehension extended beyond merely touching contaminated books; there was a prevailing fear that inhaling dust from books could also lead to illness.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Conservative Perspective
The anxiety surrounding library books played into the hands of conservative factions already keen on condemning certain texts as morally harmful. This blame-game only reinforced their narrative, further stigmatizing libraries.
Section 1.2: Preceding Fears and Legislative Action
Concerns about disease transmission through shared items, including books, had roots extending back several years prior to the librarian's passing. In the UK, the Public Health Act of 1875, which initially aimed to reduce the sharing of contaminated items like bedding, was expanded in 1907 to include library books, preventing individuals known to be ill from accessing public reading materials.
Chapter 2: The Response to Public Panic
In an effort to counteract the rumors and misconceptions, libraries experimented with various sterilization methods for their books, employing steam and formaldehyde solutions in hopes of eliminating germs. However, it took several years for the panic to subside, likely aided by the absence of any significant disease outbreaks traced back to libraries.
Epidemics, Disease and Plagues in Jewish History & Memory - This video explores how historical perspectives shaped public fears surrounding disease transmission, particularly in library settings.
Modern medicine has since confirmed that while it is feasible for books, like many objects, to harbor pathogens, the likelihood of infection from handling them is extremely low.
Although the risk of contracting a disease from a library book is minimal, it does not mean that they are entirely free from germs. A 2013 study found traces of various bacteria in books, notably including a copy of 50 Shades of Grey from the Antwerp Library, revealing substances such as herpes and cocaine.
An Outbreak of Salmonella Infection (USPHS, 1954) - This video sheds light on historical outbreaks of disease and their public health implications, contextualizing fears surrounding library materials.
In conclusion, while bibliophiles may encounter a variety of substances in the books they read, the previous fears surrounding deadly illnesses transmitted through libraries are largely unfounded.