REALM Project Releases First Results: Virus Undetectable After Three Days on Five Common Library Materials

COLUMBUS, Ohio (June 22, 2020)—The Reopening Archives, Libraries, and Museums (REALM) Project released results from the first phase of the project designed to inform librarians for the safest possible return to the library during the continued threat of the novel coronavirus.

This phase tested the covers of hardcover (buckram cloth) and "softback" books, plain paper pages inside a closed book, mylar protective book cover jackets, and plastic DVD cases. Tests found the virus undetectable after one day on the covers of hardback and softback books as well as the DVD case and undetectable on the paper inside of a book and mylar book jackets after three days, according to the reported results. An additional five materials will be texted next with results expected at the end of July. Project updates are posted as they become available. The REALM website will soon share examples of public library reopening plans of libraries.