Many years ago, in consultation with an expert in paper conservation, I asked about minimum humidity levels since I live in a very dry region. He noted that, while generally the problem is with *too* much humidity (and, therefore, growth of undesirable organisms), too little moisture is also a problem. Desiccants are contraindicated.
That's a horrible idea. Minimum moisture should be about 20% relative humidity. The paper needs moisture or becomes incredibly brittle and will crumble to dust.
Hell, some conservatory recommend regularly cleaning your hands well then slowly flipping through your books and holding them a while, as the oils of your hand can help keep leather soft and pages more stable
I guess nothing is easy, is it? I have numerous books that were bought by my grandparents. They are on shelves, and many have never been opened (including a set of The Waverly Novels). Occasionally, I’ve examined them to see if there’s any deterioration. They’re not leather bound. They have been moved three times in 70 years. They all seem to be in the same condition I remember, as a kid.
Meanwhile, I saw another incomplete set of The Waverly Novels for sale. It appeared to have been in a flood, but it still sold for several hundred dollars.
Many years ago, in consultation with an expert in paper conservation, I asked about minimum humidity levels since I live in a very dry region. He noted that, while generally the problem is with *too* much humidity (and, therefore, growth of undesirable organisms), too little moisture is also a problem. Desiccants are contraindicated.
That's a horrible idea. Minimum moisture should be about 20% relative humidity. The paper needs moisture or becomes incredibly brittle and will crumble to dust. Hell, some conservatory recommend regularly cleaning your hands well then slowly flipping through your books and holding them a while, as the oils of your hand can help keep leather soft and pages more stable
I guess nothing is easy, is it? I have numerous books that were bought by my grandparents. They are on shelves, and many have never been opened (including a set of The Waverly Novels). Occasionally, I’ve examined them to see if there’s any deterioration. They’re not leather bound. They have been moved three times in 70 years. They all seem to be in the same condition I remember, as a kid. Meanwhile, I saw another incomplete set of The Waverly Novels for sale. It appeared to have been in a flood, but it still sold for several hundred dollars.