How to Make a Book Last Forever

Making a book last for years really comes down to common sense. Following these steps will make sure that the books you collect avoid damage and are kept safe for future generations to enjoy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Choose a high-quality book from the get-go. Although it may cost more initially, it will save you the trouble of having to buy the book again when your first copy wears out. Obviously choose a hardcover version as opposed to a trade paperback, but also make sure that your book has a durable sewn binding and high-quality, acid-free paper that won’t brown with age.
2. Read your book with clean hands. This will keep the edges and the pages of the book looking white and pristine.
3. Store books in a dry place; use a dehumidifier if necessary.
4. Store oversized books and paperbacks by laying them flat rather than standing them on end. Never shove too many books into a bookcase, as this will damage the spines. So will tilting or leaning a book.
5. Remove books from the bookshelf carefully. Do not handle a book by the top of its spine. Do not pick a book up by its cover boards.
6. Keep books free of keepsakes and newspaper clippings. Storing these in a book will transfer acid to the book’s pages.
7. Keep your book out of extreme elements, such as direct light or sunlight, or heat. Don’t leave your book lying in the car; it will end up looking warped.
8. If you see signs of bugs, fungus or mildew, store your book in the freezer.
9. Clean hardcover books periodically. If your book is bound in leather, have the book sent to a qualified binder every two to five years to be feed.
10. Always restore books before they get worse. Send your book to a librarian or a qualified professional rather than trying to repair it yourself.