Harrisburg’s local storage facility provides tips on storing old books
Harrisburg’s local storage facility acknowledges that books remain special amid the ever-evolving digital world. It is thanks to their tactile and tangible nature that lets you get lost between the sentences. Whether you need more space at home or are scheduling a move, you may wish to store away your books for safekeeping. Still, you must store them appropriately to make sure they are in the best condition during retrieval.
How to store old books correctly?
- Organize according to size
- Keep them out of the sun’s reach
- Choose a climate-controlled unit
- Clear dust regularly
Avoid book damage with these storage tips
- Organize according to size
Whether storing new or old books, you must never stuff different sizes into the same box in transit. It increases the risk of creasing paperback books or tearing hardcover books. Instead, purchase heavy-duty cardboard moving boxes that will accommodate the total number of books. Consider one medium-sized box for every shelf of books you have. Then start by taking all the books out and placing them on the table or floor before transferring them to the boxes. Organize and stack them by size and cover. It typically refers to the small, medium, and large sizes and separates them by paperback and hardcover books. In the end, the piles should include small paperback book piles, medium paperback book piles, and so on.
- Keep them out of the sun’s reach
It’s typical to organize your belongings a few boxes at a time when packing for a big move. It involves constructing a few moving boxes and laying them on the floor to fit as many items as possible into one box. This great strategy allows you to optimize the space of each box and keep items together. It also makes unpacking easier when you get to the new place. The problem is leaving the boxes open during the process lets sunlight shine on them. While that shouldn’t be an issue for most items, the same can’t be said of your books. The sun’s UV rays can fade your precious books and ruin their exteriors. A safer option is to pack one box at a time and tape it before moving to the next one.
- Choose a climate-controlled unit
A climate-controlled room is ideal for storing old books. Several factors need to be controlled, including room temperature. A very hot temperature can undo the glue in your hardcover books and make leatherbound books crack. Instead, opt for a lower temperature of anything at or below 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal preservation. Secondly, you want to avoid exposure to high levels of humidity. An excessively humid or musty space can affect the exteriors of hardcover books. Therefore, find a climate-controlled storage to maintain your books’ quality.
- Clear dust regularly
Owning a steady collection of books comes with responsibilities, including clearing dust buildup. Dust can harm the quality of your books and lead to mold growth in the pages. If left unattended, the buildup can jeopardize your and your family’s respiratory health. Taking time to clear dust weekly is highly advisable. Use a feather duster and clean each shelve, the book tops, and between each book for a thorough clean.
Hire Harrisburg’s best local storage facility
The tips above help maintain the quality of your old books for more reads in the future. Most importantly, work with Harrisburg’s best local storage facility with climate-controlled options. Mr. Storage is locally owned and managed with affordable pricing. We have storage facilities in Concord, Salisbury, Harrisburg, Kannapolis NC, and Midland. Contact us today to reserve your unit.