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When being open and closed, dirt and dust can be introduced to the pages of a book.  The covers are there to protect these pages.  Here are a few tips to keep your books in good condition.

• Keep out of direct sunlight and away from direct heat.
• Do not store books in areas of high humidity such as conservatories, near airing cupboards or places where condensation forms
• Do not allow books to be touching cover to cover.  This will cause the covers to rub.  Separate them using acid free archival quality paper or board
• If possible, books should be boxed in archival quality board that fits exactly the books' dimensions
• Dust books with a soft haired brush or use a low suction vacuum cleaner regularly to avoid a build up of dust and dirt on areas like the spine
• Remove any bookmarks or foreign materials as these can cause staining due to the paper or inks used in their construction
• Store large or heavy books on their side so that the text block does not tear away from the covers.
• When removing a book from a shelf, avoid handling it by the top of the spine; always grip it firmly around the middle