Books carry stories, ideas, and even memories. But while they are magical, they’re also made of just paper and ink. You need to know how keep them in shape for years to come.
Good book care isn’t complicated. With some basic knowledge and simple habits, you can dramatically extend the life of your favorite reads.
The True Value of Books
A single paperback might not seem like much, but the cost of books adds up. New releases, special editions, and hardcovers can be expensive. Out-of-print titles or signed copies are even more valuable.
But the value goes beyond just money. Consider how much time you spend finding the perfect books, reading them, and building your collection.
That dog-eared novel might remind you of a special vacation. The textbook with your notes might represent years of study. Or maybe they’ve been given to you by a cherished person. These are reasons enough to take great care of them.
Why Book Care Matters
Books age like anything else. If you handle them roughly, leave them in the sun, or spill food on them, they wear down fast. A well-cared-for book stays readable and beautiful for years.
Once received, they become personal artifacts that tell stories beyond their printed words. The notes you write, the bookmarks you leave, and even the wear patterns create a history unique to your copy.
And if you ever want to sell, donate, or pass on your books, their condition will greatly impact their worth. Even if you don’t, well-kept books mean a healthier space for you. Dusty, moldy books can trigger health issues or attract pests.
Everyday Book Care: Do’s and Don’ts
Here are the book care habits you should cultivate:
Keep Books Out of Direct Sunlight
Sunlight fades covers and pages. It will also cause paper to be brittle over time. Store your books in a cool, dry spot away from windows to keep them looking fresh.
Avoid Humid Spaces
Humidity can cause mold and warped pages. Keep books in a dry area, and avoid storing them in basements or near bathrooms. Leave some space between books and the wall to allow air movement, which helps prevent mold growth.
Don’t Eat While Reading
Food crumbs and grease are bad news. They can stain pages and attract bugs. You don’t want them chewing on your books’ already fragile material.
Store Them the Right Way
Store books upright on shelves with similar-sized books supporting each other. For oversized books, lay them flat to prevent spine damage. Avoid stacking too many books or tilting them, as this can damage spines over time.
Use Proper Bookmarks
Skip the dog-ears by using a clean bookmark to mark your spot without hurting the paper. Don’t fold the corners or stick random objects between pages. Bookmarks that are too thick can damage the spine.
Dust Them Regularly
Books collect dust like anything else. Lightly dust your shelves to keep them clean and prevent build-up. Use protective book covers or dust jackets to give your books an extra layer of protection.
Clean Your Hands
Wash your hands before reading. The oils on your fingers transfer to pages, causing yellowing and degradation over time.
Handle With Care
Never force a book open beyond its natural capacity. Open them gradually, working from front to end until you reach the middle. Support the spine, especially with a heavy book. Rest it on a flat surface and avoid pressing it completely flat.
Special Care for Different Types of Books
Not all books are the same. Some need a little extra attention. Here’s how to care for different types of books in your collection:
Hardcovers
Hardcover books are sturdy, but their dust jackets can be fragile. Always remove the jacket if you’re reading outdoors or while eating (though you shouldn’t eat while reading!).
Store the jacket flat or place it back on the book when you’re done. If the corners bend easily, consider a plastic cover for extra protection.
Paperbacks
Paperbacks are more delicate. Avoid bending the spine too far, or it might crack. Don’t stuff them into tight bags or let them sit under heavy items. If you travel with them, use a book sleeve or case to protect them.
Leather-Bound Books
Leather needs special care. Keep these books out of direct sunlight and away from heat, which can dry and crack the leather. Every once in a while, wipe them with a soft cloth and use a leather conditioner designed for delicate materials.
Antique or Rare Books
These need the most care. Always handle them with clean, dry hands—better yet, use gloves. Avoid opening them too wide, as old spines can crack easily. Store them flat if the binding is fragile, and use acid-free boxes or archival covers to protect them from dust and light.
Keep them in a dry, cool space away from humidity and heat. Check them every so often for signs of mold, insects, or warping.
If you have the budget, consider investing in a temperature-controlled cabinet. Stable conditions are key to keeping these valuable copies safe and readable for years. While you’re at it, get them evaluated by a professional to understand their worth and how best to preserve them.
Ebooks as an Alternative
If you’re not interested in doing all the above, be a patron of ebooks instead. They don’t get smudged, stained, or torn. You can read them in the rain, on the bus, or late at night without worrying about damage. Plus, you can carry an entire library in your pocket.
Ebook readers (if you decide to get one) are lightweight and easy to store. However, they can be expensive. If so, reading apps are still a thing.
revise: And sometimes, ebooks are just practical even if you’re into physical copies. If you read something often or carry it around, switching to a digital version protects the physical copy. That way, your real book stays in great condition while you enjoy the story on your device.
Conclusion
Taking care of your home library can be its own relaxing hobby. Thankfully, it doesn’t (usually) have to be expensive. Simple habits—like clean hands, proper storage, and regular dusting—go a long way in keeping your books in good shape.
The time you invest pays off with books that last longer, a cleaner and healthier reading space, and the satisfaction of handing down well-kept stories to others.
How do you care for your books? Share your thoughts below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
- Printable Bookmarks: Links to Printables and How to Make Them
- How to Find a Book from Vague Description: Find Titles Based on Plot Details
- 14 Cheap Bookshelves for Your Home Library
Cole is a blog writer and aspiring novelist. He has a degree in Communications and is an advocate of media and information literacy and responsible media practices. Aside from his interest in technology, crafts, and food, he’s also your typical science fiction and fantasy junkie, spending most of his free time reading through an ever-growing to-be-read list. It’s either that or procrastinating over actually writing his book. Wish him luck!
