In 2009, Diane Wren was a MECA&D photography student working in the college’s Joanne Waxman Library when the staff discovered some books with possible mold damage. In looking for resources on how to identify and treat mold, staffers were disappointed at the available options. Knowing that Maine is filled with small libraries and historical societies facing the same issue, Wren applied for and received a grant from the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation to create an easy to use guide for preventing, identifying and treating mold on a limited budget. Wren did the research, photography, design and illustrations for “Books Gone Bad: Mold in Library Collections.” The guide was sent free of charge to all libraries and historical societies in the state. A book launch is scheduled for July 8 at the Joanne Waxman Library from 6-8pm.
Image: Photo of mold in book, by Diane Wren '10.