Should I oil my leather books?
Do not oil or "dress" leather books. If the leather is crumbling, powdery, and spreading leather dust everywhere, the best options are to box the item or to consult a conservator, who can also address other condition problems that usually stem from deteriorating leather, including stiffness and cracking. For books that need to be handled, a polyester film jacket can help prevent the transfer of leather rot from hands to the pages.
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Send written correspondence to:
Preservation Directorate
Library of Congress
101 Independence Ave. SE
Washington, D.C. 20540-4530
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