- Don't pull a book out by its spine as this can cause damage. Instead pull a book out by pressing on either side or by pushing out from behind
- Store books standing up and not on their sides
- Be careful when opening or photocopying a book. Support the spine and try to open only as wide as necessary
- Do not use staples, paperclips, tape or glue
- Keep away from light
- Avoid extreme fluctuations in heat and humidity
- Keep storage areas clean to avoid attracting insects and rodents
Source: Smithsonian Museum Conservation Institute, Handling Paper Artifacts
(See Resources for further information).