How to look after your books

 

 

Another instalment in our Everyman Library series. This time we look at how you can

make sure your books last the test of time. How you can look after beautiful editions

for future generations.

 

Sarah-Jane Hamlyn is Lead Preventative Conservator at the British Library,

where she helps staff and readers play their part in caring for the collection.

She studied graphic design before training as a paper conservator and so has a

passion for book design and construction. Above all, books are designed to be read.

But this means that they can be vulnerable to wear and tear over time.

Sarah-Jane follows these basic handling and storage techniques to ensure

her small library,and the nation’s heritage, will be looked after for

generations to come:

1. Try to keep books  out of direct sunlight and limit artificial light to reduce fading

2. Store books upright on their tail and don’t be tempted to use them as a surface for other items

3. Lay large books flat in neat piles with the largest items at the bottom

4. Avoid storing books you care about in damp, moist conditions,such as in kitchens and bathrooms