If you’re putting books into storage for more than a few days or weeks, it’s crucial to pack and store them correctly. This helps prevent mold, pests, and damage to covers and spines. Here are a few tips for book storage to keep your belongings in the best condition possible.

Packing Your Books for Your Storage Unit

1. Clean the Books

Before you pack your books away, look them over for existing damage or dampness. Using a soft, dry cloth or paintbrush, remove any dust and dirt from the covers and outer edges of the pages.

2. Use a Rigid Container

A cardboard box will work in a pinch, but for the best results, choose a stronger material — like a plastic storage bin. This will help prevent any crushing or warping of the books due to other items stacked on them.

3. Give Them Space

While you want to make efficient use of your storage space, don’t crowd your books. Squeezing too many into the available space can damage spines and loosen bindings, leading to loss of covers or pages when you unpack.

​​​​​​​4. Lay Large Books Flat

For smaller books, it doesn’t matter much whether you lay them flat or stand them with spines upward. But, for larger volumes, lay them flat to avoid damage; the weight of neighboring books can do harm if you’re not careful.

5. ​​​​​​​Choose Climate-Controlled Storage

​​​​​​​When possible, choose a storage facility that has carefully monitored temperature and humidity levels. The optimal range for books is 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit with 40 to 50 percent relative humidity. This will help prevent mold and heat damage.

Your personal library has no doubt taken years to accumulate; therefore, it’s crucial to carefully preserve every book. For clean, safe, and convenient storage, rent a space from A-1 Williams Mini Storage in Cookeville, TN. They offer 24/7 access to your space and continuous security monitoring at rates you can afford. For questions, call them today at (931) 537-6005 or reach out online.