Here’s a breakdown of the provided text, focusing on the key information:
The problem:
Beetle infestation: A library in Hungary is facing a notable infestation of beetles that are damaging its collection of books.
Cultural loss: The chief restorer views this damage as a loss of culture, irrespective of how replaceable the books might be.
The Solution:
Oxygen-Free Treatment: The infested books are being placed in tall,hermetically sealed plastic sacks.
Nitrogen Habitat: All oxygen is removed from these sacks, creating a pure nitrogen environment.
Duration: The books will remain in this oxygen-free environment for six weeks.
Goal: The aim is to kill all the beetles. Post-Treatment: After the treatment, each book will be individually inspected adn vacuumed. Damaged books will be set aside for restoration.
potential Cause:
Climate Change: The abbey believes that climate change,specifically rising average temperatures in Hungary,may have contributed to the beetle infestation.
Insect Life Cycles: Higher temperatures allow insects to complete more growth cycles annually.
Shift in Damage: Previously, mold damage was the primary concern, but insect infestations are expected to increase due to global warming.
The Abbey’s commitment:
Rule of Saint Benedict: The library’s director emphasizes the Benedictine tradition of valuing all monastery property as highly as sacred altar vessels.
Preservation Duty: This tradition instills a strong sense of responsibility for preserving the vast collection.
Overall:
The text describes a serious beetle infestation in a Hungarian library, the methods being used to combat it (oxygen deprivation), and the belief that climate change is a contributing factor. It also highlights the deep commitment of the Benedictine abbey to preserving its cultural heritage.
