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Whether you’ve got a large collection of books, magazines or other paper-based memorabilia, storing it correctly is imperative if you want it to stand the test of time. At 1st Access Self Storage Peterborough, we have a range of storage units which are perfect for doing just that.
In this article, we’ll be running through five top tips for storing books and other paper products; if you’ve got a collection of such items that you need to find a safe and secure home for, contact us today.
Avoid outside walls and direct sunlight
A storage unit’s lack of windows makes it ideal for storing books long-term, as they’ll be hidden away from harmful UV rays which can fade covers and – eventually – damage the structure of the book. Depending on the unit you opt for, you may have an outside wall or two to contend with, however. Avoid placing books right against these, as the extremes of temperature and humidity could harm paper products.
Choose your boxes wisely
If you’re intending to store your books or magazines in boxes (which we would recommend), it’s worth going for acid-free cardboard archival boxes. Plastic boxes are great for keeping items protected from the elements, but they don’t allow paper products to breathe adequately, which can lead to a build-up of mould.
Lay them flat or upright
Tilting books or placing them unevenly can put undue stress on their structure, eventually making them brittle and weak. With that in mind, books should be laid flat or placed vertically; boxes can be stacked full, but don’t wedge items in too tightly!
Ensure they’re clean and dust-free
Dust can damage paper over time, as it is somewhat acidic. So, if you’re planning to store any books or paper products long-term, it’s wise to clean them thoroughly beforehand to remove as much dust and debris as you possibly can. If you want to go the extra mile, you can wrap each one in cloth – or cover the box with cloth – to stop any more dust getting in.
Catalogue everything
Finally, we recommend organising your collection carefully and labelling the contents of each box. You could choose to categorise them by author, genre, era or subject matter perhaps – just make sure you know which books are where. This will save you time when you return to either check on your collection or retrieve certain books, months or even years down the line.
We can provide a range of packing materials on-site – get in touch with our friendly team today to find out more.