What About Books & Shelving Suggestions
Preservation Guidelines for Shelving Books
Many of these books are old, so we'd like to keep them in good condition for as long as possible.
“J” is for Journal : There are some items that resemble books, but are actually journals. Watch out for a “J” written/typed on the call number label! Vice versa, there are also books that look like journals, so watch out for a 'NOT FOR CIRCULATION' stamp on the inside cover of the books.
Reference Dots : Please look out for ‘reference’ labeled dots when shelving so reference books stay upstairs where they belong.
Snag Slips : If there is an issue with an item, use the snag sligs located in the drawer nearest the entrance door. Using a pencil¸ mark an ‘X’ by the problem the book has, or describe the problem. Place it on the workroom counter when finished and Peter will take care of it.
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Shelve books vertically and upright, unless they’re too tall. In that case, shelve with the spine facing DOWN.
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Use appropriately sized bookends at the ends of shelves to keep the books in place.
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Shelve a volume so that books on either side gently support it. Avoid shelving too loosely, the books may bend or splay.
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On that note, avoid overcrowding shelves -- jamming books together distorts the bindings and makes it difficult to remove the books without tearing the spine.