How to Store Books

Properly storing books is an important part of their care. The ways in which you choose to store your books can largely effect how long they remain a part of your collection. Box your books upright in acid-free materials and store them in a cool, dark place to ensure their longevity.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Repair your books before you store them. Administer minor repairs or find a professional book conservator to have your books restored.

2. Separate and group your books by approximate size.

3. Find small containers made from acid-free materials like alkaline corrugated cardboard. Using small containers reduces the amount of stress that your books will undergo during packaging and storage.

4. Place the books upright in boxes corresponding to their sizes. Do not rest the books on their spines or on their edges. It's best to store books the same way that you would shelve them--in neatly stacked rows that are neither packed too tight or loose. Laying books flat and stacked on top of each other should only be done as a last resort.

5. Seal the box with acid-free tape.

6. Store the containers in a cool, dark, vermin-free place that is not susceptible to water, moisture or mold accumulation. Avoid places such as attics, basements, bathrooms, areas near heating units and areas that are close to plumbing pipes. Aim to place your boxes in areas that are air-conditioned.

7. Elevate the boxes. If possible, stack book boxes on shelves or wooden pallets and keep them at least 4 inches away from surfaces that may present a threat to your books like floors, walls and ceilings. Concrete floors can be especially detrimental to stored books.

8. Keep food away from the storage boxes. Food can attract vermin and pests that can damage your books.

9. Clean the storage area regularly. Monitor the area for pests and vermin. If a vermin problem arises, consult a book care specialist for ways to rid your books of the pests without harming your books.

Tips & Warnings

• Books that are especially fragile or valuable should be stored individually in custom containers.

• Avoid laying books on top of upright books to fill space in boxes.

• Sunlight can be damaging to books. Avoid storing your books in a place where direct sunlight shines.