Northolt Library closes after bedbugs found in returned books

The bedbugs were found thanks to vigilance by library staff, the council said

A library in west London has closed after bedbugs were found in returned books.

Ealing Council said a "small number of bedbugs" were found in the books which were returned to Northolt Library on Saturday.

The library remains closed while plans are being made with a pest control team to get rid of them, the council said.

It is the second time a library in the borough has had to close due to the insects.

Bed bugs are difficult to remove

Last month, Ealing Central Library was forced to close after some were discovered in the furnishings.

When asked if there had been any common source at the libraries, a council spokesperson said: "Bedbugs 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.

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

The closures come following concerns of bedbugs infesting London after a widely-reported outbreak in France.

In Paris, the insects were reported in schools, trains, hospitals and cinemas.

In October, London Mayor Sadiq Khan reassured Londoners that everything was being done to prevent an outbreak, including disinfecting Tube train furnishings.

• How to get rid of bedbugs and are they in the UK?

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