IMPORTANCE

"Booklice" is the common name given to this insect group because of their not infrequent occurrence among papers in desks, oil dusty book shelves, or in other places where books or papers are stored. Principal food is the microscopic molds that may develop on certain adhesives used in bookbinding, wallpaper, and other products. As scavengers, they also readily consume dead insects found in out-of-the-way places in most homes. Most insect damage seen on books is caused by pests such as silverfish or cockroaches, not booklice.