The discovery of a single bed bug was enough to prompt the Alderney Gate branch of the Halifax Public Library to fumigate two floors of the building.

The parasite was found on the first floor last week.

No others were spotted, but officials didn’t want to take any chances and called in Braemar Pest Control to douse the library in chemicals, just in case.

It’s not uncommon for bed bugs to show up in public places. Braemar spokesperson Dave Holland told Global News they can hide on someone’s clothing, backpack or book to get around.

“They’re very much hitchhikers, that’s how they get around. They’ve been hitchhiking on people since the caveman days and they’re going to continue to do that,” Holland explained.

As for their appearance in libraries, Holland said that’s nothing new.

“Its a natural place that bed bugs can show up. They’re showing up in libraries all across North America and the world.”

Since the fumigation, no further bed bugs have been spotted.