The Bermuda National Library will be closed next week to deal with the mould that was identified almost a year ago.

On Tuesday eight employees of the Queen Street, Hamilton building organised a sickout after complaining for a substantial amount of time about the health risks.

The Royal Gazette was told by a well-placed source that at least one employee has been diagnosed with a mould-related illness after being tested. Yesterday, it was understood that all employees were back at work and Head Librarian Joanne Brangman said the library would undergo treatment starting next week.

She said: "While the contamination is not severe; it has the potential to become a major problem if it is not addressed. The contamination was caused by cracks in the roof and the walls. Works and Engineering was made aware of the problem in June 2007."

The problem is in carpeting on the second floor, particularly in the staff work area.

Works and Engineering have repaired external cracks and other repairs, including painting.

The carpet will have to be replaced and crews will start internal work "as soon as the books on the upper level are all packed and the shelving and furniture removed".

"The library will have to be closed during that time and we anticipate starting this process next week, however a definite date for the closure and the length of time of the closure are still to be determined."

And last night opposition Health Minister Louise Jackson said Government's response to the mould in buildings has been too slow and hopes "government will step up immediately and close down facilities" in similar situations in a timely fashion.

She said: "We have serious concerns about the presence of mould in the Bermuda National Library and other government buildings. It's hoped that that are proven to be affected by mould.

"Civil servants and the public should not have their health threatened by known mould contamination. Librarians are not walking off the job for no good reason.

"History has shown that the presence of mould in government buildings has not been dealt with in a timely fashion.