As materials move through the processing units, they  remain in a variety of shelving/storage environments, sometimes on a long-term basis. In order to avoid damage to the materials, it is essential that basic storage techniques be utilized.

All staff should be aware of books as physical objects. They should be concerned that no processing routine or practice interferes with the preservation of the items, and the accessibility of the information they contain. The more staff members know about proper care and handling of books and other materials, the less accidental damage occurs.

Various kinds of materials are inserted into books going through processing and often these materials collect into packets that can become quite thick or bulky. Jamming packets of cards, order forms, invoices, flags, etc., inside the cover or text block of a took can strain or break a binding which has been custom made to fit the thickness of the text block.

Most processing slips inserted into the center of the text block will usually stay there during processing if the book is handled properly. Use thin paper inserts. Thick inserts stress book structure.  Thick or bulky packets should be placed alongside of the books to which they relate (if possible, in envelopes).

Most processing slips and flags inserted into books when going through various units are acidic. Remove all such inserts when books are finally going to the shelves, including publisher invoice or packing slip copy. They should not be left in the books for longer term storage. If you must, use thin paper inserts: the fewer the better. Thick inserts stress book structure.

It is important that books are kept upright, neat, and orderly when on booktrucks in your area or workspace. If books must be stacked on your desk, they should be stacked neatly (preferably in smaller piles) and not haphazardly or any old way.

Be careful of loading books on one side only of the older wooden trucks: if the truck is going to be moved with the books on them, they can tip over easily when turned if the weight is not evenly distributed.

This picture shows books properly kept on a booktruck. The books are not leaning on each other due to gaps, but are upright. A bookend is used since the shelf is not full. Books are arranged so that shelves are full, but not so tightly as to cause damage when they are removed.  

Keep hands clean and dry when handling books and manuscript materials. This will help in not transferring dirt, oils, liquids, foods, and other substances. For better protection, use white cotton gloves to handle special materials, film, negatives, and photographs.

When working with books we need clear uncluttered spaces. Having an orderly, clear work area helps prevent inadvertant damage to books as well as mishaps or loss, especially with narrow or small work surfaces.

Keep drinks and food away from books. Stains are permanent. Coated papers will stick together when wet. They can cause damage to books on contact. In addition, liquids and food on the hands can transfer onto books and paper. This picture shows what NOT to do:

Food stains and crumbs can attract pests. This donated book was received in the Preservation Unit with these breakfast crumbs between some pages. If you see something like this, bring to the attention of Preservation staff.