Whether you are moving, don’t have room in a small apartment, or are looking to protect volumes for future generations, understanding how to properly store books will keep them looking their best. Storing your books can be crucial for their longevity and ensure they make it safely back to your home when the time is right. Storage units are often places where books become damaged. Learning proper book storage will prevent issues like mold growth, ripped pages, discoloration, or detached spines. This blog will share tips on how to protect your collection when storing books in a special library room or a storage unit.
1- Avoid Direct Sunlight
Paper and ink are sensitive to sunlight as they can begin to fade, warp, or weaken with too much sun. It is best to keep bookshelves out of the line of sunlight from windows and doors, and don’t store books in a window. Unless you have high-tint or protected film on the windows, books should be kept in a darker area.
2- Allow For Air Circulation
Another crucial book storage tip is to prioritize air circulation. Pushing bookshelves against a wall or putting them close could lead to damage. Air circulation prevents the proper conditions for mold growth and protects them from extreme temperature fluctuations. If you need to place your bookshelf against a wall, leave at least a few inches of space at the back, or space books out along the shelving to allow for better circulation. You can also rotate books from shelf to shelf to give them more air and a new sitting position.
3- Clean Books Before Storing
When books need to be stored long-term, they need to be dusted and cleaned before placing them in a box or bin. Removing dust or bacteria before book storage will keep the debris from spreading to other volumes in your collection. Especially when you need to pack boxes tightly, making sure books are clean and dry will prevent yellowing, damage, and mildew.
4- Control Exposure To Humidity
Keeping humidity and moisture low inside your home or storage unit will protect your books from premature damage. Humidity fluctuations are the most common reason books become damaged because they provide the ideal atmosphere for mold. A room should be kept between 35-50% humidity to prevent both mold and brittle pages. Homeowners or apartment dwellers may need to invest in a dehumidifier, while those putting books in a storage unit should invest in climate control.
5- Tips For Storing In Boxes
Book storage when packing in boxes or totes is also crucial to the longevity. Here are our professional tips for keeping books in good condition while they rest in your long-term storage.
Wrap In Bubble Wrap
Before putting your books in a box or storage bin, make sure to wrap them in paper or bubble wrap. This will protect them from dust, dirt, drops, scuffs, and dents that can weaken the book. Protecting the edges and corners of the book is easier when books are carefully wrapped.
Face Edges Upwards
When books are stored with the pages facing down, it can cause them to loosen from the spine. Once the pages are loose, it can be difficult to get them back in or for the spine to remain strong. Store books on their spine or lying on their covers when packing to prevent this.
Storage Units In Salt Lake City
Our storage facility features a multitude of different units to meet the needs of different residents. 700 Block Storage offers different-sized units to accommodate large furniture or even just a few boxes. We also have climate-controlled units to protect documents, books, and electronics from damage. 700 Block Storage is located just off of I-15 in Salt Lake City, making it easily accessible for travelers, locals, and students alike. Whether you need a safe place for all of your books, are running out of storage in your home, or need a safe place to store while you move, our units are the reliable choice.
700 Block Storage offers convenience, 24/7 access, and moving supplies as well. Even if you don’t need book storage, we can help you find a temporary home for all kinds of belongings. We know that packing up items and moving them into storage can seem like a hassle. We do all we can to help streamline the process. Call 385-455-7006 to rent your unit today!
