PRESERVATION 101
 
 
  • Do not eat or drink while working with library materials.

  • Food attracts pests, and spills cause permanent stains. Remind patrons who are eating or drinking of our food policy. Ask them to put away or dispose of food/drink items or offer to dispose of items for them.

  • Refer items in need of repair to trained repair staff who will use proper techniques and supplies.
  • Do not make repairs yourself. Minor repair problems can become major ones if neglected too long.

  • When photocopying books take care not to wrinkle pages.
  • If a book is bound so that it resists being pressed flat, do not force it--settle for a less than perfect copy or use a copier that allows for draping the book over the edge of the copying surface.

  • Do not use Post-it Notes® and metal paper clips in library materials.
  • These items can be permanently damaging, leaving stains or tearing pages.

  • Limit the use of rubber bands, preferring instead to tie fragile materials with cotton tape.


  • Remove damaging items before shelving materials.


  • Use a paper bookmark to mark your place. Do not turn down the corners of pages.



  • Submitted by: F.D. Bluford Library Preservation Committee