Northolt library forced to close after bed bugs found in returned books

A library in west London has closed after bed bugs were found in returned books.

In a statement on social media Ealing libraries wrote: “We are sorry to inform you that we are having to temporarily close Northolt library following sightings of a small number of bed bugs.”

Ealing Council said the bed bugs were found in books returned to the library on Saturday.

The library remains closed while plans are being made with a pest control team to get rid of them, the council said.

Last month, Ealing Central Library was also forced to close after bed bugs were discovered in the furnishings.

The closures come following concerns of bedbugs infesting London after a widely-reported outbreak in France.

The epidemic sent waves of panic throughout Paris with reports claiming the insects have been found in people’s homes and even in cinema seats.

In October, the mayor of London Sadiq Khan reassured Londoners that everything was being done to prevent an outbreak, including disinfecting Tube train furnishings.