If you’ve already started collecting antique books, you know that this quickly becomes an expensive hobby. If you want to protect your investment, it’s important to learn how to care for your books properly. Here are some simple guidelines to get you started:
1. Keep the book clean: That may seem very obvious, but it includes things like NOT writing in the book. It deters from resale value. Also dust them carefully about twice a year so the dirt doesn’t cake on. Do not wipe them with water!
2. Bookshelves: the best way to keep a book clean and in good condition is having proper storage. Prime storage is a bookshelf. Make sure the book stands up comfortably. If it squishes into the shelf, it damages the edges. If you have no choice lay the book flat and stack them neatly leaving room at both ends so edges remain firm.
3. Storage: If for some reason you need to pack your books away, they should be packed in much the same way you store them on bookshelves. Archival stores carry acid free boxes into which the books can go to improve the longevity of the tome. If you have more than one box, remember not to stack them (the weight will cause damage to the books within)
4. Moisture & Sunlight: these are enemies. Avoid putting books anywhere that dampness and bright light will reach them regularly. You want dim, dry, cool storage locations.
5. Coverings: If you can obtain non-acidic protective coverings these are excellent (they’re used by many archival services). If not, use the dust jacket and an additional plastic cover outside that. Don’t wrap the whole book in plastic, however. It holds in heat and moisture and can ruin the paper.
6. Musty smells: Place the book in a box with cat litter in a dry, dim room. Cover it with more litter. Check it after a week to see if it needs longer.
7. Insects: any room can house hidden guests. The problem is that the chemical treatments for bugs can also indirectly harm your books. I suggest doing a good treatment before storing your books (and making sure any residual chemicals are off the bookshelf).
8. Last but not least watch your fingers: Wash your hands before handling a book and ask others to do likewise. The oil in your fingers will be absorbed by paper or leather. If it’s a very old book, use gloves.
