How To Store Rare And Antique Books}

How to store rare and antique books

by

John Harvey

The first consideration to be given when

collecting rare or antique books is the safe

keeping and storage. Whilst this may seem

obvious, it is essential to consider these few

points in order to ensure the longevity and safe

keeping of any collection. The starting point is

how the books are to be kept. The considerations

to be looked at are as follows:

Shelving The appointment of the shelving within a

room is important, in an ideal world it should be

a minimum of 3cm away from any given wall to

allow the circulation of air. The wall should

not be an outside wall as this can encourage damp.

The shelving should be robust and not sag in the

middle when fully laden. The shelving would

ideally be adjustable so books can be stored

upright and central to the shelve, again to

promote air circulation. Solid book ends should

be used to keep the books upright and tightly

stacked, not too tight as this can cause damage

when gaining access. Large and heavy books can

be stored flat but not stacked on top of each

other as this can damage the spines.

Humidity and Temperature Dampness within books

encourages mould, however, too dry and the paper

can become brittle. The ideal temperature would

be between 60-70F.

Light Direct sunlight is the biggest single

contributor to book damage (second only to water).

Paper will decay and fade if not protected.

Books should not be stored or subjected to direct

sunlight. Your storing room should have the

curtains or blinds drawn when not in use.

Infestation There are several critters that are

attracted to the component parts of books (

starches, glues and paper) such as silverfish,

book lice, cockroaches, bookworms, rats and mice.

The tell tale signs are small piles of brown dust

or bite marks. If you observe any of these

symptoms then you should consult a pest control

expert immediately.

These simple considerations will ensure the

successful storage and promote longevity of any

book. Further articles on the topic of book

collecting, Common book terminology and how to

identify first editions are available at www.

bid4abook.co.uk.

If you would like to know more about rare and

antique book collecting and their storage visit:www.bid4abook.co.uk

Article Source:

eArticlesOnline.com

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