How can I slow the deterioration of my books?

Question

I am an avid book coleector and I some books that are 50+ years old. How can I keep them in the best shape possible? Don't some books have acid that makes them get yellow, and get spots and wear? How can I slow this?

Answer 1

The older books are more likely to hold up than recent books. Better quality paper was used before the war. I notice the 1940s books that I have turned yellow and brittle from the poor paper quality during that time.
Here's what http://www.nobeltrader.com/tips.htm suggests:
Store books out of direct sunlight, as UV will cause the spines and dust jackets to fade. Large, heavy books should be stored flat, although that isn't always possible. Dust your books often.
How to Store Books Properly
Proper storage of your books can mean the difference between a valuable collection of fine copies and a disappointing batch of "reading copy" books, marked by mildew, foxing and broken spines.
Books should be stored at a moderate temperature (60-70 degrees Fahrenheit) and at 50% humidity.
Whenever possible, keep books on a sturdy bookshelf.
Shelve books upright.
Never shelve books too tightly. One risks damaging the book when replacing it or removing it from the shelf.
Store books toward the front of bookshelves. This promotes proper air circulation and prevents musty odors from forming.
Avoid storing books near a heater, or in direct sunlight, as books may be damaged by extreme temperatures and harsh lighting.
Stick a few whole cloves in the corners of bookshelves to prevent mildew.
Dust your books at least once a year by removing each volume from the shelf and, while the volume is tightly closed, brushing away dust with a soft, wide paint brush.
For maximum protection, consider purchasing a glass enclosed bookcase.

Answer 2

Proper handling and storage in a stable, cool, clean, no direct sunlight,non-humid environment,can prolong book's life.
High humidity promotes mold growth, cockle pages, and attract insects. Extremely low humidity can dry out leather bindings. Direct sun-light will fade leather and cloth.Keep books in closed glass cases away from brightly lit windows or damp exterior walls to minimize the amount of dust and grime that will accumulate.
If a book will not lay flat, do not use force it to open further. The covers should always be supported when the book is open. Push the two adjoining books inward and remove the book by grasping the spine.
Place similar sized books, next to each other on the shelf vertically, packing them neither too loosely or tightly.Avoid using clips,pens,and rubberbands.
Take care not to make folds and protect fragile books by keeping it in a box customized to its dimensions .

Answer 3

The acid was part of the processing of paper in the past, so the books are going to deteriorate. You've got lots of good advice here. I also cover my books with a curtain over the bookcase. This keeps out dust and is also good Feng Shui :)

Answer 4

The most important one is to keep your books out of direct sunlight. Read through the website below - they have some good advice.