Some books can be read repeatedly, with new details and insights appearing each time. However, most of the works you read will remain on a shelf for years, gathering dust and taking up precious space. To remedy this, turn to All American Self Storage. This High Point, NC, storage facility offers 24-hour video surveillance for their secure units, whether you’re storing family heirlooms or last year’s novels. Here, they offer helpful tips for storing your favorite reads.

The Top Tips for Storing Your Books

1. Find a Secure Facility

If your books are important enough to store instead of donate, it’s worth finding a secure storage facility. Whether the books are expensive or just have sentimental value, look for a facility that takes actions to prevent burglary. At the least, the company should have video monitoring and electronic gates. Each unit should also be cool and dry to protect the paper from deteriorating.

2. Prepare the Books

Once you’ve found the right storage facility, get to work on preparing the books for their hibernation. If certain pages seem damp, open the book and give it time to dry before packing it. Then, using a soft paintbrush, wipe the outside of the pages to remove dust. If you spot any insect eggs while doing this, don’t include that book in the storage haul. Next, wrap your books in cloth, not newspaper, as the ink is acidic. When choosing boxes, look for acid and lignin-free varieties to preserve the novels for as long as possible.

3. Organize Your Collection

Once your books are packed in rigid boxes, consider the layout of the storage unit. When forming stacks, place each box exactly on top of the other to prevent them from leaning or falling. Keep each stack shoulder-height or lower, so reorganizing or removing books isn’t a problem down the line.

When you turn to All American Self Storage for a secure unit to keep the books, you won’t be disappointed. In fact, you’ll be happy to frequent their facility and swap out select volumes from your personal library. Call them today at (336) 434-1222 for more information, or visit the website for a closer look at their offerings.