The tool was developed by University of St Andrews, not the poisonous books.
timbaboon · 1h ago
Haha that’s exactly why I clicked on the story :)
drpixie · 29m ago
My first thought was that they referred to metaphorically poisonous books, something that scans the catalogue looking nasty books about diversity or gender ... "oh no, more book banning".
jwagenet · 4h ago
I thought the final note “which can irritate modern day readers” in the heading was a funny comment. Were historic readers immune to the effects? Has a binder deteriorated such that the irritants come off more readily? Likely neither and it’s always been a problem, but it’s an unanswered question.
bananalychee · 51m ago
I assume one would develop tolerance to those acute symptoms from repeated exposure.
userbinator · 3h ago
Probably has always been a largely occupational hazard and otherwise of little concern to the general public, even those who read books regularly. Of course in this era where fear sells and everything has to be harmless regardless of real risk, it's become a more prominent issue.
iterance · 1h ago
I don't think this is a "fear sells" issue. Arsenic green is remarkably toxic. In the 19th century, the toxicity just wasn't known or recognized as serious. Now, we know better. Medical diagrams from the time period show hand injuries on people who worked with arsenic compounds regularly (deep sores that won't heal, e.g.)
gmuslera · 2h ago
This is from a sequel or a remake of The Name of the Rose?
nickdothutton · 3h ago
Great, first I had to buy a geiger counter for my old watch collection, now I need to worry about my old books too.
The tool was developed by University of St Andrews, not the poisonous books.
I knew about toxic wallpaper, but hadn’t turned the page on poisonous books. (Apologies for the pun. I’ll see myself out.)
But in all seriousness, I’m glad to see efforts like this helping to identify and prevent potential harm.
It is “developed by” not “in”. No Harry Potter corner not allowing students to visit. Actually they do. But every library has green cover does.
At least he can go to the exhibition I guess.