Transmission Risks: Can You Catch a Disease From Books?

Books hold much more than stories and information; they can also harbor microscopic life. Over time, the pages of books become home to various types of bacteria, dust mites, fungi, and other microbes. A 2013 study published in 'PLOS ONE' examined the microbial communities in a university library and found significant diversity, including human skin bacteria, that could potentially cause skin infections. Outsides of books are ideal environments for such because of the lack of sunlight exposure, which would otherwise kill them. Unless properly cared for and stored in optimal conditions to prevent microbial growth - like avoiding damp spaces - these pathogens could remain active for centuries. If someone with an already compromised immune system comes into contact with these books, it's possible they could fall sick.

The spread of infectious diseases through contaminated objects is known as fomite transmission. Though it might seem strange, the risk posed by old books shouldn’t come as much of a surprise when considering how infectious materials transferred on surfaces like doorknobs or handrails can result in outbreaks. However, no major health scares have originated from libraries so far because most germs contracted from books aren't present at high enough doses to make healthy readers ill.

Nevertheless, because of findings from multiple studies, including University College London’s 'MetaSUB International Consortium,' which recognizes paper currency coins, mobile phones, and even touch screens at airports as potential carriers of pathogens, one shouldn't ignore risks posed by handled objects, including books, particularly older ones.

Citations:
Zaura et al., 2015; Grice & Segre, 2012.