Your custom enclosure, new binding, or restored volume has been designed with archival-quality materials and expert craftsmanship to safeguard what matters most: the integrity of the object, and the story it holds. Proper care and handling will ensure that it endures for generations to come.

1. Environment & Storage Conditions

Books and archival enclosures are sensitive to their surroundings. Poor environmental conditions are the leading cause of deterioration.

• Temperature & Humidity: Aim for a stable environment between 60–70°F (16–21°C) and 40–50% relative humidity. Fluctuations can cause paper and bindings to expand and contract, leading to warping or cracking.

• Avoid Basements & Attics: These areas often have poor insulation, high humidity, and pest risks. Store books and enclosures in climate-controlled, well-ventilated spaces.

• Limit Light Exposure: UV light can fade dyes, weaken paper fibers, and deteriorate adhesives. Avoid placing books or boxes in direct sunlight or under harsh artificial lighting.

• Allow Air Circulation: Store books upright with space for air to flow around them. Avoid packing tightly or storing in sealed plastic bins, which can trap moisture and promote mold growth.

2. Handling Best Practices

Books and boxes are durable—but not indestructible. Most damage occurs from careless handling.

• Wash & Dry Hands: Natural oils, dirt, and moisture from skin can stain or damage materials. Gloves are generally not recommended for books, as they can reduce dexterity and increase the risk of tearing.

• Support the Spine: Open books carefully, especially older or custom-bound volumes. Avoid forcing books flat—this can crack the spine or pull signatures loose.

• Remove with Care: To remove a book or box from a shelf, grip it from the middle of the spine or gently push neighboring books inward and grasp from both sides. Avoid pulling from the top edge (headcap).

• Lay Flat or Use Cradles: When reading or displaying fragile books, lay them flat or use a book cradle to avoid strain on the binding.

3. Caring for Custom Enclosures

Every Bibliopathologist enclosure is handcrafted with precision. To keep it in optimal condition:

• Use Built-In Aids: If your box includes a ribbon or finger recess, use it to remove the book—never shake or pry it loose.

• Don’t Stack Heavily: Lightweight stacking is fine, but avoid placing heavy items atop your enclosure, especially if it features recessed labels, foil stamping, or decorative elements.

• Keep Dry & Clean: Do not expose to excessive humidity, liquids, or oils. Use a clean, dry cloth for occasional dusting.

4. Cleaning & Maintenance

Clean storage and shelving are essential to preservation.

• Dust Gently: Use a soft, dry microfiber or lint-free cloth to remove dust from enclosures and cloth- or paper-covered books. Start at the spine and move toward the fore-edge to avoid pushing debris into the textblock.

• Avoid Liquids & Chemicals: Do not use household cleaners, polishes, or leather dressings. These can stain or cause chemical damage to bindings, cloth, and adhesives.

• Clean Shelves Regularly: Dust and vacuum bookshelves using a HEPA-filter vacuum with a brush attachment. Never spray cleaners directly near books.

5. Packing & Shipping Books

If you’re mailing books or archival boxes, proper packaging prevents damage in transit.

• Wrap Securely: Wrap each book in acid-free paper or clean kraft paper. Avoid plastic wrap unless shipping in wet weather conditions, and never place plastic in direct contact with the book.

• Use Rigid Support: Place wrapped books between layers of rigid cardboard or foam board to prevent bending.

• Box with Padding: Use a sturdy, corrugated cardboard box slightly larger than the item. Fill empty space with padding (bubble wrap or crumpled kraft paper), ensuring the book or enclosure cannot shift.

• Label Clearly: Mark packages as “Fragile” and “Do Not Bend.” Avoid packing multiple heavy items in the same box unless well supported.

6. General Preservation Tips

• Shelving: Store books upright, with similar-sized volumes together. Oversized books are best stored flat. Avoid leaning or pressure from heavy neighbors.

• No Pressure on Hinges: Don’t force books open or press them under weight to keep pages down—this can damage hinges or joints.

• Avoid Adhesives: Never use tape, glue, or “book repair kits” from commercial office stores. These are rarely archival and often cause irreversible damage.

• Label Wisely: If labeling a box, use removable acid-free labels. Avoid pressure-sensitive tapes, permanent markers, or adhesives on cloth, leather, or paper surfaces.

• Monitor for Pests: Watch for signs of insects like silverfish or booklice. If found, isolate the item and contact a conservator.

7. When to Call a Conservator

Some problems require a professional’s touch. Contact a conservator if you notice:

• Mold, mildew, or water damage

• Detached covers or spines

• Brittle, torn, or flaking pages

• Insect damage or frass (droppings)

• Fading or damage from previous “repairs”

Gerald Ward, founder of Bibliopathologist, is a trained book and paper conservator with an MLIS in Preservation Administration and extensive postgraduate training. He is a member of both the American Institute for Conservation and the Guild of Book Workers, and is happy to advise or consult on your preservation concerns.