Handling and Storing Rare Books
We buy First Editions, First Printings of the following books:
Handling Rare Books
You would be surprised how durable books can be. Understandably some books require extra care and attention, but most books are designed for the modern environment.
Most often, the most vulnerable part of the book, especially leather-bound books, are found in the joints of the book; particularly the opening joints. Take particular notice and care while opening the book. Impact on the book joints can be reduced by picking up the book with one hand, and with the other hand, open the book. This supports the book, its covers and pages by reducing additional risk of mishandling the book.
Opening a larger book may require a different approach: while the book is closed, place the book on a surface that is flat (and clean). Ensure the book is upright. Proceed to open each of the covers, with each cover laying on the table. While you are lowering the covers, be sure to keep the content in place with the other hand. Now you should be able to open the contents without potential damage to the spine.
The use of gloves may increase damage and wear to the book; an insufficient grasp may result in tearing or creasing of the individual pages in the book.
Storing Rare Books
The ideal method for storing books is usually in an upright bookshelf. Larger books may need to lay flat, however, do not stack them. This creates pressure that my hurt the book(s).
Transparent covers are a great way to protect the paper and covers, and any other exposed elements of the book. It is not ideal to wrap the books in bags due to potential moisture and mold damage.
It is ideal to keep your bookshelf in a room that will protect the books from sunlight. Also, place the bookshelf away from any HVAC vents or units, to reduce the impact of humidity and temperature in the room.
A consistent temperature is ideal and if possible, like wine, a cooler, but not higher humidity location is preferred; the lower 60 degrees is the ideal temperature to store books in a shelf. While homes tend to be in the upper 60s to lower 70s, these are within acceptable margins and most practical, Try to avoid extra humid or arid environments in the property.
Precautions are necessary if you are storing your books close to metal furniture and equipment; there is a higher risk of damage by scratches.
The most precarious element of book making is the use of vellum. Environmental changes within the room from heating, cooling and humidity could cause damage to the book resulting in a “warped” or “bent” cover. One way to address this potential damage is to ensure the covers are flattened, which, over time, will potentially improve or restore the book covers.
Book repair specialists may be able to assist you if your efforts do not appear to have the corrected the disrepair.
