Proper Care and Handling of Books
Taking care when handling any collection item, especially functional items like books with flexing parts, is one of the more effective, cost-efficient, and easily achieved preservation measures.
Take proper care when handling books by:
Having clean hands and a clean area to use the book
Keeping food and drink away
Removing the book from the shelf by gripping on both sides of the spine at the middle of the book (push in the neighboring book on both sides to get a good grip), instead of tugging at the top of the spine
Not forcing a book to lie open to 180 degrees; instead, prop up the covers of an opened book to decrease the opening angle
Not using paper clips, "dog ear" folding, or acidic inserts to bookmark pages
Not using rubber bands, self-adhesive tape, any kind of "leather dressing," and/or glue on books
Proper Storage of Books
Good storage significantly prolongs the life and usability of books and includes:
A cool (room temperature or below), relatively dry (about 35% relative humidity), clean, and stable environment (avoid attics, basements, and other locations with high risk of leaks and environmental extremes)
Minimal exposure to all kinds of light; no exposure to direct or intense light
Distance from radiators and vents
Regular dusting and housekeeping
Shelving books of similar size together, so that the face of the covers are maximally supported by the neighbors on each side
Keeping upright shelved books straight and not leaning (storing books lying flat is also good)
Dealing with Condition Problems
Beyond the measures outlined above, there are two main options for books with condition problems:
1. Protect the book further with a box or other enclosure*
2. Conservation treatment by a book conservator