Bedbug outbreak spreads to London library as parents and children forced to evacuate

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Dozens of bemused book lovers turned up to Ealing Central Library on Tuesday to drop off novels, only to be met with locked doors and a sign on the door warning of a “pest infestation” amid claims staff had refused to open up. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.” Ealing Council confirmed there had been a bedbug outbreak at the library, which was first spotted last Tuesday and forced the building to close that day. They are treating us like idiots.” open image in gallery Bedbugs can thrive in the spine of books One local posted on the local Ealing Facebook group saying: “The library has reopened but I wouldn’t recommend taking any books out as the bugs may be in the books and once they get into your house they will spread like vermin.” Speaking to The Independent, one bedbug expert warned it is possible for the insects to survive in books, although Ealing Council said none had been spotted in the library’s collection so far. Although she loved books she did not want to get bedbugs.” An Ealing Council spokeswoman confirmed the bedbug outbreak in the library’s soft furnishings.