Out of an abundance of caution, and in light of recent research showing the probable presence of heavy metals<\/a>, the University of Illinois Library is advising all staff and patrons to use caution when handling library materials.<\/p>\n Current research has primarily focused on pigments used in 19th<\/sup> Century publisher bindings, and evidence has shown these items are likely to contain heavy metals including arsenic, lead, mercury, and chromium. Newly emerging data indicates that some heavy metals are likely present in other library books, including those from outside this time period, as well as materials that have been rebound in new covers. The extent and degree of the presence of heavy metals in these items is still being determined.<\/p>\n Until we know more about which metals may be present in which books, and whether these metals are likely to transfer to the skin during handling, we encourage all patrons and staff to use caution when handling library materials.<\/p>\n Preliminary research indicates the heavy metals may be transferred to the skin during handling and could then pose a risk of ingestion if transferred to the mouth or eyes. The Library, in consultation with the Division of Research Safety and Employee Safety and Health, has developed guidelines for library patrons and staff.<\/p>\n When handling library materials, please:<\/strong><\/p>\n If you have additional questions, please email Preservation Services.<\/a><\/p>\n Current research in Preservation Services focuses on monographs with original pigments published between 1800-1899, as this subset is likely to have a high concentration of items that contain heavy metals.<\/p>\n Preservation Services, in consultation with an expert from the Materials Research Laboratory<\/a>, is currently performing XRF analysis<\/a> to identify which items contain arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, and\/or mercury.<\/p>\n The Library will continue to partner with campus units such as the Division of Research Safety and Employee Safety and Health to use this research, and other newly developing scholarship in this area, to shape safer handling guidelines and procedures to protect library staff and patrons.<\/p>\n To what extent are other materials likely to contain heavy metals?<\/strong><\/p>\n Which heavy metals transfer during handling, and in what quantity?<\/strong><\/p>\nHandling Guidelines<\/h2>\n
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Research at the University of Illinois<\/h2>\n
Future Research Questions<\/h3>\n
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Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n