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General Collections Care for Staff

This guide will assist library staff in the proper care and handling of library materials.

Book Drops

Book drops are a major source of damage to books, and have always been problematic since they are necessary for the return of circulating materials. They are also prone to be a place where materials can be easily damaged.

Circulation staff can attempt to minimize damage by emptying bins as often as possible.

                                          

                                          

 

Book Drops

Care should be given to the proper removal of books from the bins or places where they collect. Do not lift by the headcaps or boards (the covers) of books, and do not toss them in piles either in the bin or on a book truck.

DO NOT do like this:

                                     

 

Instead, lift the volumes a few at a time, providing adequate support underneath.