Special care is required for rare books.If cared for properly, rare books can provide their owners with a beautiful collection that will continue to grow in value as time goes on.It doesn't require obscure materials, extensive upkeep, or a large investment to care for rare, old books; instead, it requires time, patience, and a bit of elbow grease.
Step 1: There are fire and smoke dangers.
Don't put books in a room or corner that is susceptible to fire or smoke.Books should not be placed in a room that is prone to steam, such as a kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom, nor should they be located next to a fireplace or wood-burning stove.
Step 2: It is a good idea to avoid extreme temperatures and conditions.
Don't store books in a room that is prone to extreme temperatures.Cold rooms may include a garage, pantry, laundry room, or similar area.The ideal temperature for books is between 65 and 72 degrees F.When choosing a storage area for your collection, keep this in mind.
Step 3: You can choose a wooden or metal bookcase.
Rough shelving such as particle board can damage the binding of books, while chemically-treated or painted shelves can mess with the books.When selecting a case or shelf, look for smooth, sealed wood or smooth metal.
Step 4: The lighting was dim.
Light from the sun or a bulb can cause damage to rare and old books.If you want to avoid placing heavy overhead lighting beside your books, choose a space that isn't regularly touched by the sun.The best place for them to thrive is a corner or interior room.
Step 5: Make sure your storage space is clean.
Before placing your books in a closed case or an open bookshelf, make sure the area has been cleaned.Dust should be removed from shelves and all surfaces.Make sure your shelf or case is thoroughly scrubbed before you clean the top of your bookshelf because there is a chance of rain dust on your tomes.
Step 6: There are vacuum pages and binding with a handheld vacuum.
Dirt and debris can be lifted from the pages with a small vacuum.For very old, delicate books, avoid pressing the vacuum directly to the book's surface; instead, allow it to hover just above the surface, moving slowly and gently from side to side.
Step 7: The pages should be wiped with microfiber cloths.
Microfiber cloths are great for picking up dust.Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the book's pages.The cleaning method should be done using gloves as the oils in the skin can damage old pages.
Step 8: Use a natural-fiber brush.
The material of the brush is more important than its intended purpose.Horsehair, coconut bristles, and other natural fibers will be softer on the spine and pages.
Step 9: Don't allow insect activity.
The insects are attracted to books, and can be found on the pages, glue, binding, or cover.There are small holes in the pages.Place your book in a sealed plastic bag and store it in the freezer for a few days if you find any insect activity.Remove any insects, eggs, or sacs that remain.If the bookcase is in question, place the linen on the shelves or sprinkle the earth around it.This is safe to keep near old, valuable books and acts as a deterrent for insects and mice.
Step 10: You can search for staining, mold, and mildew.
It is not possible to reverse staining in most cases, but it can give insight into the conditions the book requires.Water staining, for instance, will tell you the book is more sensitive to water than to heat.Cool, dry air may reverse the damage caused by warm, moist conditions.Place the book in the freezer for 3-4 days and then use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove any mold.
Step 11: Place books upright.
Books should be lined up vertically on a shelf.The binding to the book can break down due to improper storage.
Step 12: Group according to size.
The books should be placed next to each other.The curved appearance of the cover could be caused by placing large books alongside smaller books.If you have a lot of different sizes and shapes, group them according to size using thin metal bookends.
Step 13: Carefully read space books.
Weak binding and warped covers can be caused by slacker books.Books should fit against each other and not be packed tightly, as this could damage the binding.Ideally, books should be placed in a way that they all stand upright, with enough wiggle room to allow a small finger to wedge between them.
Step 14: It's a good idea to clean your books and storage.
Go over your books and shelves with a microfiber cloth at least once per month.Once every 3-6 months, check the instructions for insect or mold activity.
Step 15: As seasons change, adjust conditions.
Evaluate the storage space you have chosen during the new season to make sure peak conditions are kept.In the summer and winter, make sure the room is warm.It's a good idea to place a dehumidifier near your bookcase if humidity is a problem.
Step 16: Carefully handling your books.
Many book lovers enjoy touching, smelling, and sharing their books.Use gloves and avoid pulling on the book's spine or pages when handling your books.Put your fingers on either side of the book and gently remove it from its place.Carefully turn pages.