If a person has never smelled mold, how does one know what it smells like?

Ever been in an old basement? That yucky burning rotty smell? That's mold.

Interesting article on mildew from Virginia Cooperative Extension: "How to Prevent and Remove Mildew In Relation To The House and Household Furnishings"     http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/housing/356-643/356-643.html

Paper, Books
Remove any dry, loose mold from paper with a clean, soft cloth. If mildewed paper is damp, dry it first in an airy place if possible. Spread pages of books out fanwise to air. If the books are very damp, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder between the leaves to take up the moisture. Leave starch or powder on for several hours, then brush off.

For leather book bindings and covers, wipe off the mold. Wipe the leather surface with a cloth dampened with a solution of one part denatured or rubbing alcohol to one part water. Apply saddle soap or leather conditioner.