 |
Maintain a stable temperature
of 60 to 70 degrees; the need for an air conditioner and/or heater,
weather-stripping, window tinting and other climate controls is determined
by your room's condition relative to its outdoors-- the additional costs
incurred in climate control may be less than the otherwise drop in
your collection's monetary value |
|
|
Use a hygrothermograph for a continuous record of temperature and humidity;
the less expensive hygrothermometer doesn't keep a record but does indicate
current levels |
|
|
Fire and water emergency plans are helpful for disaster prevention and
recovery. Consult you local Fire Department before establishing your
valuable collection;
for instance, fire-retardant carpet, less curtains and less fabric/ stuffing
in furniture near your books lessen fire risk. Wet books require
immediate attention due to mold, which is unsafe for books and humans |
|
|
A rider for your homeowners insurance policy may be purchased for your valuable books-- please consult with your insurance professional for coverage; maintain a book catalog and photos in case you have to report a loss |
|
|
Maintain a stable humidity
of 50%, give or take 10 points; again your room's condition where you store
your collection determines how much your needs are for a humidifier or
dehumidifier. As a book's various materials get stressed in environmental
fluctuations, uniformity in temperature and humidity is important |
|
|
Maintain clean air,
including regularly changing your air conditioner/ heater filters;
keep your books away from any gas or smoke pollution; an air filtering
system may be warranted for your library |
|
|
Keep book cases a couple of inches away from exterior walls, water pipes and ceilings, to avoid moisture |
|
|
Keep light levels as low as practically possible-- both sunlight and
artificial light contain varying amounts of ultraviolet (UV) rays and
heat. Indirect sunlight and low power light bulbs are best; when your
room is not in use for extended periods of time, darkness is desirable |
|
|
Light damage cannot be reversed; it is very gradual and therefore difficult
to notice. If you want to display particularly valuable books, exhibit
them for short periods at a time (approx. 3- 4 months) at low light levels |
|
|
Many books published since the mid 1800's were printed on acidic paper; they yellow and brittle faster than acid-free paper even under the best library conditions |