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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Lydia Chantler-Hicks

West London library closes after bedbugs found in returned books

A west London library has been forced to close after bedbugs were reportedly found in a number of returned books.

Ealing Council confirmed Northolt Library has shut after the parasitic insects were discovered on Saturday.

It is the second library in the area to close due to bedbugs.

In October, Ealing Central Library temporarily shut after bedbugs were found in furnishings.

A statement posted on Ealing Libaries' account on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday said: "We are sorry to inform you that we are having to temporarily close Northolt library following sightings of a small number of bedbugs.

"We are contacting professional pest controllers who will advise us on the best way to treat the bugs."

An Ealing Council spokesperson on Wednesday confirmed the library remains closed as it finalises plans to treat the bugs with its pest controller.

"Bed bugs have been an issue in the UK for many years and are notoriously difficult to prevent in well used amenities such as public transport and public buildings," said the spokesperson.

"Regular inspections and vigilance are advised to spot bugs early and treat them, which is exactly what has happened in Northolt Library."Ealing Central Library closed on October 30.

A notice posted on its front door at the time said: "Due to a pest infestation, we have temporarily removed soft furnishings from public use. These seats are currently being treated with pest control chemicals.

"These chemicals will be applied while the library is closed and are safe for children and adults. We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

The closures follow widespread concerns about the prevalence of bedbugs, following reports of infestations on public transport and at hotels in Paris.

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