MIKROBIOLOGICKÁ DEGRADÁCIA KNIŽNIČNÝCH A ARCHÍVNYCH MATERIÁLOV.

The aim of this article are the archival and library collections preservation issues. The collections are threatened by biological degradation of materials caused by microorganisms, especially bacteria and fungi. Author clarifies their function in process of degradation of archival and library materials. He introduces the most dangerous sources of microorganisms (material containing microorganisms, respectively non-vegetative states of microorganisms, dust, air, air conditioning, human himself). Author also outlines the conditions supporting their growth (high humidity environment, adequate temperature level, neglected hygiene regime) and names particular species of microorganisms which are the most frequent sources of contamination and degradation of paper documents in accordance with existing knowledge. He also points to an adverse effect of the microorganisms on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]