Avoid using saliva to turn pages. Use a sponge instead. [1] X Research source Use cotton gloves if you are handling a rare, old, or fragile book. Don’t eat or drink anything while you’re reading.
Try using a piece of thread or silk ribbon as a bookmark to avoid any unwanted damage. If you wish to keep the bookmark with the book, place the bookmark in an acid-free envelope next to the book or inside an insert. [2] X Research source Avoid folding, or “dog-earing,” the corners of pages as they can cause lasting damage. [3] X Research source
Use caution when opening new hardbacks as they often have a stiff spine and are prone to cracking. [4] X Research source
Don’t bend paperback covers while reading. It can be difficult to get them to resume their original shape and it often causes spine damage. [5] X Research source Invest in reading copies if you have a book you can’t put down and want to preserve.
Book conservationists can have many specializations, from historic preservation to binding and material repair. Consult national book conservation organizations, like the Regional Alliance for Preservation (RAP) or the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), to find out which local conservationists can provide you with a consultation.
Placing a book flat is an alternative to upright shelving. However, when shelving a book horizontally be sure to put as little weight on top of it as possible. Grab the middle of the spine when removing a book from a shelf to avoid damaging the head (top) and foot (bottom) of the spine.
Humidity can cause mildew to grow on your books. If you live in a particularly humid environment, and mildew begins to grow, simply wipe the mildew with a very dry cloth and leave the book in sunlight for 30-45 minutes. Be careful not to leave it longer as sunlight can cause the cover to fade. [6] X Research source If a rare or fragile book grows mildew bring it to a specialist in book conservation.
Make sure to dust your books from the spine outward so dust does not settle behind the spine. [7] X Research source Avoid storing books in plastic bags. Books need to breathe and plastic can cause molding or warping. Instead, try wrapping the book in acid-free cloth or purchases a book storage box.
