Frequently Asked Questions: Preservation

The most effective and economical preservation measures are preventive: proper storage, storage environment, and handling.

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

Good storage significantly prolongs the life and usability of books and includes:

• A cool (room temperature or below), relatively dry (about 35-50% 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)

If conservation treatment is needed, see How do I find a conservator?