With World Book Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to celebrate our love for books and ensure they stay safe and sound for years to come. Whether you’re a collector, a student, or just someone with a passion for reading, knowing how to store your books away properly is key to preserving their condition. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about storing them in storage units, from packing them up to keeping them in tip-top shape.
Why Proper Books Storage Matters
First things first, why bother with proper storage for your beloved books? Well, books are more than just ink on paper – they’re windows into different worlds, sources of knowledge, and cherished possessions. Improper storage can lead to damage from dust, moisture, pests, and even sunlight, causing pages to yellow, covers to warp, and spines to crack. By taking the time to store your books correctly, you can ensure they remain in pristine condition for generations to come.
Packing Your Books for Storage
When it comes to packing your books for storage, a little care goes a long way. Follow these simple steps to pack them safely and efficiently.
Gather Your Supplies
For storing books, choose sturdy, clean, and dry boxes that can be securely closed. Regular cardboard cartons work well for this purpose. You will also need packing tape, bubble wrap or packing paper, and markers for labelling.
Sort and Declutter
Before packing, take the opportunity to declutter your collection. Donate or sell any books you no longer need or want, and set aside any valuable or fragile ones for special treatment.
Preparing the Books for Storage
Books should be clean and dry before packing. If a book feels damp or has a musty odour, it should be aired and dried in a well-ventilated room. Use a soft brush to remove surface dirt and dust. For delicate or valuable books, wrap each one individually in acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to protect them from scratches and damage.
Stack Books Carefully
When packing small or medium-sized books, you can place them either lying flat or standing upright. However, large and heavy ones should always be stored lying flat to prevent damage to their bindings.
Never store books resting on their spine or fore edge, as this can cause serious damage. Books stored upright should be securely packed to prevent leaning but not so tightly packed that they’re under excessive pressure, making unpacking difficult. Avoid stacking items on top of books stored upright.
When packing heavy books flat, stack them with their spines and fore edges alternating. Place the larger ones at the bottom of the box and lighter ones on top to prevent crushing. Leave some space for air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
Choosing the Right Box
It’s important not to use oversized boxes. Instead, opt for several smaller boxes, as they are easier to move safely and reduce the risk of book damage.
Fill Empty Spaces
Use packing paper or bubble wrap to fill any empty spaces in the boxes to prevent books from shifting during transit or storage. Always close the boxes securely before storage.
Label Boxes
Clearly label each box with its contents and mark them to make them easy to identify when you need to access them later.
Choosing the Right Storage Space
Once your items are packed and ready to go, it’s time to choose the right storage space to keep them safe. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Climate Control: Opt for a storage space that offers climate control to regulate temperature and humidity levels. Extreme heat, cold, or moisture can damage books over time, so it’s essential to keep them in a stable environment.
- Cleanliness: Choose a clean, dry storage space free from dust, pests, and potential water leaks. A clean environment will help preserve the condition of your books and prevent damage.
- Security: Look for a storage facility with robust security measures, such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and onsite staff. Your books are valuable, so you want to ensure they’re protected from theft and vandalism.
Maintaining Your Stored Books
Once your books are safely stored away, there are a few simple steps you can take to maintain their condition.
Avoid placing boxes directly on the floor. Instead, store them on pallets or blocks to facilitate air circulation and as a precaution against potential flooding
- Avoid Sunlight: Keep your books out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading and discolouration over time. If possible, choose a storage space with minimal exposure to natural light.
- Handle with Care: When handling them, be gentle and avoid bending or pulling on the covers or spines. Use both hands to support the book when lifting it, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of them.
Conclusion
We understand the importance of preserving our cherished collections for future generations to enjoy. By following these simple tips for storing your books, you can ensure they remain in excellent condition for years to come.
