Antique
Books: Care And Keeping
By Charles Darrien
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.
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This article was written by Charles O'Brien. For other great articles on book collecting, visit Vintage Books and Scripts.
