Montreal’s biggest public library is grappling with a bed bug infestation, CBC reports. The Grande Bibliothèque, or BAnQ, has had to take unusual measure, including closing off certain sections, to deal with the problem.
Staff reportedly removed fabric chairs from the library’s lounge and replaced them with plastic seats – fabric chairs may have been facilitating the spread of the undesirable guests. Guests may also want to check their books, clothing and bags for the presence of any suspicious bugs.
The bed bugs themselves can be hard to spot – their small bodies are oval-shaped, flat and brown, and they instinctively hide in the folds, nooks and crannies of fabric. They feed exclusively on human blood. Their bites are a real nuisance; they cause itching, and sometimes also social anxiety and shame.