How to Save an Old Bible
Old family bibles are treasured family heirlooms but over the years start to fall apart. Here are ways to restore or keep a special bible safe for future generations.
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Instructions
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If the cover is falling off and pages falling out, it may need expert rebinding. I've listed below links to companies that do this. Search for more on the internet by using the keywords "rebind Bible." The process is costly, so not something to do for ordinary Bibles that lack special significance. Just replace those with a new one.
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An alternate to rebinding the Bible is to store it in a decorative box. These can be purchased with religious carvings ornamenting the box. Just search the internet using the keywords "Bible box."
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You can also make a box to fit your old Bible or look at storage boxes in Walmart or craft supply stores.
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Many old Bibles are very thick and heavy. It is better to store these horizontally. If the Bible is standing upright on a bookshelf, don't let it lean or sag as that breaks down the spine so it eventually falls apart.
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To preserve a fragile, family Bible, it's best not to use it for regular reading. Get a new Bible that can withstand frequent use, and save the precious family bible for special occasions and for future generations.
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If the Bible is beyond repair, consider saving important pages from it. The family record of baptisms and marriages can be framed for display or can go into a family history scrapbook. Artwork in the Bible can also be framed and displayed.
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Tips & Warnings
Store the Bible where it isn't exposed to high heat or humidity (attic, basement, or garage are all bad areas).
Although public libraries mend their books with a hot glue gun and book binding tape, they do not provide this as a service to the public. Their book repair techniques are more utilitarian than beautiful.
Resources
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Comments
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Gail Martin
Nov 25, 2008
We still have my husband's grandmother's bible that she gave us as a wedding gift 64 years ago.
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Mary-doll
Aug 25, 2008
how can i clean the cover of my old family bible it's been in a damp place .. I have cleaned off it with a damp cloth an have managed to clean away most of the mould .. Now I need to brighten it up an try to preserve it
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02SmithA
Jul 12, 2008
Great advice. I love seeing old bibles that are kept well
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Psalmist4M
Jul 12, 2008
Great article. I work at a Christian bookstore that works with a company that does bible restoration. These are some great tips I'll share with our customers. thanks,
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Meri Rees
Jul 11, 2008
Excellent advice!
