Published Paper Details:

Indoor environments, such as libraries, are susceptible to fungal contamination, which can endanger human health and compromise the integrity of valuable materials in these environments. This study focused on identifying the presence, variety, and distribution of airborne fungi in the Sangameshwar College library located in Solapur, India, to evaluate potential health threats and recommend preventive strategies for them. Samples were gathered using the settle plate method from three key areas: the surfaces of books, bookshelves, and the librarian's desk. Fungal isolates were grown on Potato Dextrose Agar and identified through both macroscopic and microscopic examination. The investigation identified 16 fungal species across ten genera, with Aspergillus and Penicillium being the most prevalent. Bookshelves showed the greatest fungal load and diversity, likely due to dust buildup and inadequate air circulation. The detection of allergenic and pathogenic species, such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Alternaria alternata, underscores the potential health risks to library patrons and staff, including allergic reactions and respiratory issues. These results highlight the importance of regular monitoring of fungal contamination and the adoption of preventive measures, such as enhanced ventilation, humidity regulation, and cleaning, to ensure a healthy library environment. Future research should explore seasonal changes in fungal diversity to refine environmental management practices in libraries.