In a shocking turn of events, four books have been removed from France’s national library due to concerns about potential arsenic poisoning. The 19th century volumes, printed in Britain, all feature striking emerald green covers, a common sign of arsenic usage in book coloring during that time period. Despite claims that the books would only cause minor harm from handling them, the University of Delaware researchers identified them as potentially dangerous.
The National Library of France has taken swift action by quarantining the books and sending them to an external laboratory for analysis. The Poison Book Project, a collaborative effort between the University of Delaware and Delaware’s Winterthur Museum, has been actively testing book covers for heavy metals since 2019, ultimately compiling a list of titles that pose a potential health risk. While the Victorian-era practice of using arsenic to color book bindings was once common, the dangers associated with handling these toxic books are now well-documented.
Given the serious health implications of arsenic exposure, it is imperative for libraries and collectors to exercise caution when handling antique books. The World Health Organization warns against long-term exposure to arsenic, emphasizing its highly toxic nature in its inorganic form. In light of these findings, it is crucial for institutions to proactively assess their collections for potential hazards and take necessary precautions to protect staff and visitors.
The recent discovery of a rare book laced with arsenic in Leeds serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks posed by toxic texts. Senior librarian Rhian Isaac’s diligent cross-referencing of the library’s collection with the Poison Book Project’s database uncovered the dangerous book, highlighting the importance of thorough inventory management in identifying hazardous materials.
As libraries around the world become more vigilant in detecting and removing arsenic-laced books from their collections, it is clear that greater awareness and a proactive approach are needed to safeguard public health. By heeding the warnings of experts and implementing stringent safety protocols, institutions can prevent the unwitting exposure of staff and patrons to these hidden dangers lurking within their archives.
