Insect Control (Freezing)

The UCSD Libraries have discontinued the use of chemical fumigation to control pests, unless the problem is large scale and not controllable in any other cost-effective way. When material can be removed or is a new acquisition, freezing is the standard method of pest control. The procedure is safe, lower in cost than fumigation, and effective. The preservation budget includes funds each year to carry out this part of the Library's Integrated Pest Management program.

Freezing is the most widely accepted non-chemical treatment for pest infestation with no adverse effect on paper-based materials. When subjected to freezing temperatures, the books do not freeze and ice formation does not occur within them. Only the living insects with body water are frozen.

Gifts and items acquired from Third World countries should be inspected as soon as possible upon arrival. Any materials discarded with pest damage should be referred to the Preservation Department for evaluation. If freezing is the appropriate action, the preservation librarian will coordinate the process for all library locations except Special Collections and SIO. They may set up their arrangements directly with the freezer facility. Contact the Preservation Department administrative assistant for budget information.

For campus freezer storage see: http://orpheus.ucsd.edu/preservation/dfreeze.html
For commercial freezers see: http://orpheus.ucsd.edu/sildrn/dvendor.html

Return to UCSD Preservation Guidelines.