Ross Weeks Jr. wrote: >Given their minimal value, I wouldn't go out and buy any expensive >materials >intended for rare books. Wrap each one in its own paper bag (e.g., the >old-time grocery bag), tape them shut, and store them in a dry place. >Don't >use plastic bags. ___ Or, if you did wish to keep them well preserved, there are some easy ways that a collector who does not have access to a conservation lab can preserve their books. Light Impressions (www.lightimpressionsdirect.com) and Talas sell supplies. If the books are have light-sensitive materials, are made of acidic/embrittled paper, or have structural problems, you might want to put them in individual phase boxes. This will support them, keep them isolated from other books, and keep them from getting dust and light damage. I'm pretty sure Light Impressions sells an archival quality phase box that is scored in inch-wide increments. You order one size and then use the score marks to fold the box to the dimensions that correspond to your book. Whether or not you decide to use phase boxes, you should store books upright and well supported (by bookends or other books) on each side. Oversized or very heavy books can be stored on their sides. Both high humidity and extreme dryness can cause problems for books and paper -- it is best to keep them in a stable environment with low, or at least not direct, light. Dust closed books periodically with a soft brush (brush away from the spine), and inspect it periodically for infestation and mold. When opening your book be sure to support the spine and the covers. It helps to just not open it all the way, as this will help prevent the spine from cracking if any glue or leather has lost its flexibility. Wrapping a book that probably already contains acidic paper in more acidic paper (cheap pulp paper from grocery bags, for example) will only hasten its deterioration. Using pressure sensitive tape on or near the book also poses the danger that the adhesive from the tape will age, migrate, and possibly damage your book. JLD ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).