The Oak Bay library branch closed temporarily on Tuesday to deal with a maggot infestation in the book-return area.
A temporary book-return receptacle was placed in front of the Monterey Centre and hold pick-up dates were extended for all items, said Kelly Ridgway, marketing and development co-ordinator for the Greater Victoria Public Library system.
The closure, implemented at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, was expected to be for at least 24 hours. After the infestation was discovered June 28 in the 24-hour book return area, the room was cordoned off and pest-control and professional cleaning services sanitized the affected area.
The area remained cordoned off during the weekend and “we kept the 24-hour book return closed,” said Ridgway.
When the library reopened Tuesday, however, staff found the problem had not been resolved.
Ridgway said the branch was closed while library staff work with the District of Oak Bay to determine the cause and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
Maggots are fly larvae that often turn up in garbage, where flies lay eggs that hatch within 24 hours. The cream-coloured maggots, typically about a quarter to half-inch long, then feed on whatever they are hatched on.
The maggots are not considered a risk to staff or library users.
“We apologize for any inconvenience caused and assure our patrons that their health and safety, along with the health and safety of our staff, are our top priority,” said Ridgway, adding the maggots did not get onto the books themselves.
The Oak Bay library branch plans to post updates on its website at and its social-media channels.
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