A Mysterious Panic in the Late 19th Century
In the late 19th century, a widespread fear gripped Britain and America: the idea that books could transmit deadly diseases. This fear became known as “The Great Book Scare.” Medical professionals and public health officials warned that germs could linger on the pages of library books, spreading infections like tuberculosis and smallpox.
Libraries Under Scrutiny
Public libraries, a growing institution at the time, were seen as potential breeding grounds for contagion. Some libraries even quarantined or disinfected books, using methods such as fumigation with formaldehyde or exposure to extreme heat.
Debates and Actions Taken
Debates erupted in newspapers, with some advocating for closing libraries to prevent disease spread. Others dismissed the concerns as exaggerated. Despite the lack of concrete evidence linking books to disease outbreaks, the scare persisted for decades.
The End of the Book Fear
By the early 20th century, improved understanding of germs and infection led to the decline of the scare. Libraries gradually ceased their disinfection practices, and the fear of book-borne illnesses faded into history.
When Books Were Feared: The Great Book Scare 📚
A Mysterious Panic in the Late 19th Century
In the late 19th century, a widespread fear gripped Britain and America: the idea that books could transmit deadly diseases. This fear became known as “The Great Book Scare.” Medical… pic.twitter.com/DzgJA2ydLz— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TBBOB2) September 14, 2024