In early December 2014, a small number of bed bugs was found in one area of the Downtown Library. After immediate and follow-up treatment, continuing inspections have shown the problem to be solved. For details, please see below. Thank you for your concern!
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On the evening of Dec. 2 an occurrence of bed bugs was found on one upholstered chair on the 3rd floor of the Downtown Eugene Public Library. The chair was immediately removed. The entire Downtown Library was inspected by a licensed pest control professional, who found the occurrence to be isolated and who treated the area with pyrethrin.
The Library is continuing to monitor the facility in accordance with best practices for public buildings.
What You Can Do to Help:
Do not feel overly worried. Keep in mind that bed bugs do not spread disease. This occurrence is a concern that we took very seriously, but it is not a crisis. The steps to address the problem are well-established, and we have taken them.
If possible, do not bring bedding or sleepwear into the Library. If you have these items with you: plastic bags are available at all service desks; please take one and keep those items in the bag while at the Library.
If you see any signs of bed bugs at the Library, please tell a staff member so we can act immediately. If you see any signs in a Library item you have borrowed, please place the item in a plastic bag, then return it to staff in person to report it. (Update note: there have been no reports of bed bugs leaving the Library with any items or members of the public.)
Frequently Asked Questions:
How did bed bugs get in?
Public buildings like the Library are not places where bed bugs tend to live, because no one is sleeping here at night. However, bed bugs can be carried in on fabric, especially bedding and sleepwear.
Are there bed bugs in the books?
We have not seen any signs of this.
Is the treatment safe?
Pyrethrin is considered safe by the EPA. For more information about this treatment, ask at any Library service desk.
Additional questions or concerns?
Please contact Library Customer Experience Manager LaVena Nohrenberg:
541-682-8314 or lavena.r.nohrenberg@ci.eugene.or.us