A Raymond Moriyama-designed landmark and resource for researchers, students and anyone seeking higher knowledge is struggling with the most common of problems.

The Metro Reference Library has bed bugs.

Workers there have noticed signs of the parasites at four spots in the building, including the fourth-floor periodical section, the Toronto Star reports.

The building’s facility manager said the library has hired a pest control company, which has used sticky tape, traps, powders, steam and sprays. And cleaners have been coming in regularly for four-hour sessions when the building is closed.

The manager also mentioned the library has reupholstered one room to make it easier to clean.

The building’s wall-to-wall carpeting – meant to reduce noise – and padded chairs are an ideal environment for bedbugs.

The stubborn pests have also turned up in the Yorkville and Parliament branches.

For more information about bed bugs, click here.

How to avoid picking up bed-bug hitchhikers:

• Learn how to identify bed bugs
• When visiting, bring in only what you need and avoid placing bags close to walls and furniture (if this is unavoidable place belongings in a closed white plastic kitchen bag and examine it for any bed bugs before leaving)
• If possible, stand rather than sit, or avoid sitting on furniture with fabric - wood or metal chairs are better
• Inspect shoes, clothing, and belongings after leaving
• If you find any bed bugs kill them immediately
• Put work clothes in the dryer for at least 30 minutes on high heat when you get home
• Use disposable protective clothing such as shoe covers and coveralls

Source: Toronto Public Health