The book discovered by the librarian was evidently untouched for an extended period, potentially since its placement on the shelf. This indicates that it had been preserved in a way that reflects the passage of time, giving it an almost sacred quality. The dust that covered the book was described as heavy and dark, hinting at the era in which it had been kept, likely signifying a rich history filled with urban grime from a time before environmental regulations like the Clean Air Acts were enacted.

The act of cleaning the book with a duster emphasized its neglect and the weight of history encapsulated within its pages. The librarian's careful attention to the dust conveys a sense of reverence for the book, suggesting that it carries more than just letters; it holds a connection to the past and the changes that have occurred since then. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of how literature can become a vessel for memories and the deep impact of the environment on our cultural artifacts.