Preserving Books: A Practical Guide
Books are often some of the most beloved and heavily used items in a personal or institutional collection. Whether you’re caring for a Civil War-era family Bible, a 20th-century community cookbook, or a first edition stored in special collections, books require thoughtful handling and storage. This guide walks through the basics of book preservation so you can keep yours in good shape for years to come.
A Quick History of Books
The story of books begins long before paperbacks. Around 3500 BCE, ancient Mesopotamians used clay tablets to record information. The first bound books appeared during the Roman Empire, when folded sheets were sewn together into what we now call a codex. That structure, which replaced scrolls, is still the basis of books today. Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press in the 15th century revolutionized book production and helped spread knowledge to a much wider audience.
Books may look different now, but the way they’re made hasn't changed much in the last few hundred years. They still rely on covers, spines, and glue or thread, which means they’re still vulnerable to the same kinds of damage.
How Books Are Built
Understanding a book’s physical structure helps you understand how to care for it. Most books are made up of a text block, a spine, endpapers, and a cover. Pages are often sewn or glued into place. If you pick up a book by the headcap — the top of the spine — you’re putting a lot of strain on those attachments. That’s a good way to rip a book right out of its binding.
Common Causes of Damage
Books are tough in some ways but fragile in others. Most damage comes from one of three sources:
Light: Ultraviolet light from windows and overhead bulbs can fade covers and ink, especially on older or handmade paper.
Fluctuating environments: Big swings in temperature and humidity cause paper to expand and contract, which can lead to warping or mold.
Poor handling: This includes forcing a book flat on a copier, bending pages too hard, or pulling a book off the shelf by the top of its spine.
Handling Best Practices
If you’re reading or moving a book, treat it like a little paper baby.
Always grab it by the middle of the spine, not the top or edges.
Turn pages carefully, supporting them with your whole hand.
When reading fragile or oversized books, use a book cradle or foam wedges to support the spine and keep pressure off the binding.
Storage Tips
Books should be stored upright on a shelf with their spines supported. If they’re large or fragile, it’s better to store them flat. Use acid-free folders or boxes for extra protection, and make sure there’s a little space between each book to avoid rubbing or crushing.
If a book is missing its cover, you can cut a piece of acid-free board to protect it. For loose covers, gently tie the book with unbleached cotton tape.
Don’t Try This at Home
Some types of “repair” cause more harm than good. Never use:
Scotch tape or packing tape
Glue
Staples
Paperclips
These materials can stain, tear, or degrade the paper over time. Instead, focus on stabilizing the book with archival materials. For example, wrap it in acid-free paper and place it in a phase box for added support.
When to Call a Conservator
If a book is showing serious damage — like leather degradation known as red rot, missing pages, or detached boards — it’s time to call a conservator. They can do careful repairs that won’t compromise the long-term health of the book. Trying to fix these issues yourself can make things worse.
Scrapbooks Deserve Special Treatment
Scrapbooks are often part book, part artifact. If you’ve got one, treat it gently.
Store it flat in a box.
Don’t try to reattach anything that’s fallen out with glue or tape.
Scan or photograph each page to create an access copy, so people can look at it without handling the original.
Keep Books Alive for the Long Haul
Books have always been about more than just information. They hold memories, voices, and ideas that deserve to be protected. With a little bit of care — and a few affordable supplies — you can extend the life of your collection and keep those stories going.
Want to see these techniques in action? Watch our full recorded webinar here:
