Some of my books are yellowing at the edges they're not even that old (5 to 10 years). My books are vary precious to me. What can I do to stop this.
2007-01-08 11:00:50 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Arts & Humanities ➔ Books & Authors
According to Library of Congress preservation recommendations, an ideal environment for books is 55° F in storage areas and not more than 75° F in reading areas (below 70° F is better), with relative humidity levels at 50 percent. Very low humidity can cause paper to deteriorate, while high humidity encourages the growth of molds and mildew. Books deteriorate more rapidly at higher temperatures and with drastic changes of temperature and humidity, such as when air conditioning is turned off at night and on weekends. While utility costs may make it impossible to keep the library cool 24 hours a day (especially in the Arizona summer!), some effort should be made to avoid "roller coaster" cycles of temperature and humidity. (Evans, p. 462-263)
Light:
Both natural light and artificial light (especially incandescent lights) contribute to heat buildup in the building. Yellowed paper and faded inks are due in part to light exposure, particularly ultraviolet radiation, the most damaging form of light. UV rays are present in sunlight, fluorescent and tungsten lights, so whenever possible lights and windows should be fitted with ultraviolet filters or drapes. It can be quite difficult to protect the collection from the effects of sunlight in buildings with many windows.
2007-01-08 11:06:37 · answer #1 · answered by bibliophile31 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They were printed on paper that had acid residue. When the edges are struck by light the exposed parts oxidize and get ready to crumble away.
If you think you have a problem imagine the people who take care of the books in the public libraries as their collections start to crumble. I am not sure there is an affordable fix for the acid paper problem.
2007-01-08 11:10:07 · answer #2 · answered by Rich Z 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
couple of reasons. Air tends to have this effect, moisture etc as previous answerer's have said.
Another reason... as you flick through them- the moisture from your hands - technically 'the sweat' contains grease and acid, which helps to discolor them.
I know you value your books, but i don't know their 'quality' eg the weight or finish of the paper. On some good quality or papers with a shiny finish it's possible to remove a lot of this by dusting it with french chalk and rubbing it gently with cotton wool. It's a long process. French chalk can be obtained in some art supply shops or specialist furniture restorer supplies. A more readily available alternative is talcum powder, but buy a NON-scented variety!!!!
Other than this my only advise is to wash your hands frequently. Keep your books on Shelves, out of direct sunlight. Dust them (vacuum) them frequently, dust contains microscopic beasties that can speed up the demise of sturdier things than paper-eg carpets, upholstery etc.
hope this has been helpful-sw
2007-01-08 11:24:19 · answer #3 · answered by sarahbean 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yellowing is a result to weather changes mostly because of dust. the most effitient remedy is to put your precious books each in a plastic or paper bag that will cover, protect and save them as if new (i`ve tried that myself).
2007-01-08 11:12:16 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Could be because of moisture in the air+ temperature changes.
2007-01-08 11:05:19 · answer #5 · answered by justmemimi 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sunlight?
2007-01-08 11:03:06 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hello, just wanted to mention, I liked this discussion. quite inspiring replies
2016-08-23 14:42:38 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Need more details before I can give answer
2016-07-28 07:25:54 · answer #8 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I too have the same question
2016-09-21 00:36:04 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
MOISTURE AND MOLDING
2007-01-08 11:02:30 · answer #10 · answered by Alex F 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋