Just curious, any mummies here who didn't borrow books from libraries for their little ones due to fear of germs being passed around? Or what do you do before reading the library books to the LO? Not exactly a germaphobe, but with the onset of hfmd and the tendency of my baby to grab everything in sight and taste it, I am hesistant...

As one mummy mentioned, germs do not last very long on hard surfaces. Flu virus, for example can last up to 24 hrs. Most surfaces, have virus and bacteria, not only books and the best way we can stop the spread of infection is hand washing. I have 2 young kids at home and we borrow books from the library every chance we get. I understand that young kids love putting everything inside their mouth. It can be also good for them as it builds up their immunity. Bad if they swallow the pages ;-) But if you worry about the hand to mouth habit, you can handle the book yourself and read to your kids. Then just wash your hands after. Enjoy the gift of reading with your kids :-)