Did you know that February is Library Lover’s Month? There’s something truly magical about a good book, isn’t there? The way you can lose yourself in its pages, travel to far-off worlds, or uncover stories that stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. For book lovers, a well-curated collection is more than just a shelf of titles, it’s a treasure trove of memories, adventures, and inspiration. But as any avid reader knows, finding the space to store and protect these beloved books can be a challenge.
Storing your books outside of your home isn’t just about freeing up space, it’s about giving your beloved collection the care it deserves. Think about it: sunlight might be great for brightening up your living room, but it’s not doing your books any favours. Prolonged exposure can fade those beautiful covers and weaken the pages, leaving your treasured reads looking tired and worn. By choosing a dedicated storage solution, you’re giving your books a safe haven away from harmful rays and direct light sources. It’s like a little holiday for your books, where they can stay crisp, colourful, and ready for your next reading adventure. This is just one of the many ways that professional book storage can help protect your treasured collection.
If you have invested in a Blue Bear Storage Unit in Buckingham, Bury St Edmunds, Corby, Huntingdon, Petersfield & St Ives (Cambs), read on to discover our top tips for storing books. After all, proper book storage ensures your beloved collection stays in pristine condition for years to come.
Show Them Some TLC
Before you put your books into storage, spend some time giving them a little TLC. There’s a reason food and drinks aren’t allowed in libraries. Crumbs or sticky residue left on a book can damage it over time. What’s more, any damage can spread across your collection. Gently wipe down covers and pages with a dry, soft cloth, and ensure they are completely dry before storage. If you notice any signs of mildew of drink spillages, address the issue immediately, as these can quickly ruin your books.
Wrap Them Up
Cherish your books with a warm embrace before storing them. Wrapping each book individually will prevent damage to covers and spines. For added protection, consider using acid-free paper or archival-quality plastic sleeves, especially for rare or delicate editions. If your books have dust jackets, keep them on for storage, as they provide an extra layer of protection. Once wrapped, place your books in a sturdy box. Cardboard or plastic boxes work well, but make sure they are clean, dry, and sealed to keep out any dust. No one enjoys a page turner with a face full of dust. Remember, boxes of books can get heavy, so opt for smaller boxes to make them easier to carry and stack.
Stand Them Up (This Time, It’s Okay!)
While we’d never usually recommend this dating etiquette ‘no-no’, it’s perfectly acceptable to store your books vertically when it comes to book storage. Standing books upright helps maintain their shape and prevents unnecessary pressure on the spines. However, avoid packing them too tightly, as this can cause warping or damage over time. If you have oversized or heavy books, lay them flat to prevent strain on their bindings.
Keep Things on an Even Keel
Our storage units are modified shipping containers and are completely waterproof (including from damp and condensation), with vents providing continuous airflow. This means your books won’t get too hot during the summer months. We also coat the inside of our containers with Grafotherm, an insulating coating that prevents heat loss, maintaining a higher ambient temperature inside the container. So, in the winter, your books won’t get too cold. This means you can have the ideal place for book storage outside of your home, ensuring your collection stays in perfect condition year-round.
Additional Tips for Book Storage
- Use Desiccants: To combat moisture, place silica gel packets or other desiccants inside your storage boxes. This helps keep humidity levels low and prevents mould growth that may be present within the pages.
- Label Your Boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents. This makes it easier to locate specific books later without having to rummage through multiple boxes.
- Rotate Your Collection: If you’re storing books for an extended period, consider rotating them occasionally. This allows you to check for any signs of damage and ensures they remain in good condition.
If you’re ready to store your treasured books, talk to us about cost-effective storage units in our storage locations, or get an instant quote online. If you have a great read that you want to save or lend out to your friend in the future, why not use some of your storage space to keep it in tip-top condition?
Perfectly stored books make for a better read!
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