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.
Often, the weakest point in a book, particularly leather-bound, are the joints where the books open. Take particular notice and care while opening the book. One way to reduce the impact on the joints is to use one hand to pick up the book and the other to open, taking particular actions that support the weight of each cover.
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). While keeping the book upright, open each cover individually until they are 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.
Oftentimes using gloves to handle books can increase the potential for damage because of reduced grip and touch, while increasing a potential crease or tear in the leaves.
Storing Rare Books
The traditional storage of books in an upright book shelf is usually ideal. 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.
If you are to use a bookshelf, the ideal location is away from sunlight and other sources of heat such as furnace ducts or heating/cooling elements. 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.
Extra care should be taken when storing books near metal furnishing. Metal can easily scratch the book’s bindings.
The most precarious element of book making is the use of vellum. Drastic changes in the humidity and temperature of the room may cause the book covers to warp or bow. It is imperative to force the covers of the books to flatten. If there is warped or bowed covers, time will likely restore them. Should the issue not resolve properly, there are specialists that can improve and/or repair the book.