Bed bugs close city public library branch
The Rochester Public Library's Sully Branch closed early Friday after bed bugs were discovered there.
The library at 530 Webster Ave. is connected to the Thomas P. Ryan R-Center. It will reopen Tuesday to allow a pest control company to spray the building over the weekend.
No evidence of bed bugs were discovered in the adjoining recreation center. But as a precaution, the R-Center will be closed Saturday to allow exterminators to investigate for signs of bed bugs.
If library patrons are concerned about materials borrowed from the Sully Branch, materials may be returned to the library in a zip-top plastic bag. They are asked to indicate if any evidence of bed bugs was discovered on the materials.
"In recent years, incidents of bed bug infestations have become a growing problem for all public buildings including hotels, schools, hospitals and libraries," a city spokesman said in a release. "Because bed bugs can hide in items like jackets, backpacks and other soft materials, they can be brought into any location."
According to the city, libraries are not suitable environments for bed bugs to thrive. "They require a human or animal host to survive and spread."
The Rochester Public Library has established "pest-control policies in its building-maintenance program." This includes regular inspections and treatments recommended by exterminators. Library staff are trained to recognize and report bed bugs to take immediate action to prevent the spread.
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