Preserving books

Every household has books,taking good care has to be a habit.Dedicate a special room if possible ,it is as essential as having windows in a room.
Perfect ambience is necessary.You need a dark cool place.Make sure you draw curtains to protect books from sunlight as UV rays are damaging.Do not stack books in a messy heap.
Use smooth solid shelves.Depending on the space available the number of books ,the book shelves can be kept in the living room,or under the stairs or running along a corridor of a house.
The shelves can be covered or open.It can be wall mounted or stand alone.Glass covered ones give a musty smell.To maintain the shape of books keep them upright.To ensure circulation place shelves away from wall and the base should be four to six inches off floor to risk damage from flood.Place books of similar size together.It looks good.
Keep oversized books flat.Store books which are less used on higher shelves.
Return books to its place once you have finished reading.Use bookmarks,never lay an open book flat.
Books should be cleaned regularly.Dust with a brush or vacuum.At least once a month remove books and clean.If books develop mould sprinkle baking soda ,leave it for a few hours brush of or vacuum.Leather bindings may be cleaned with petroleum jelly.Apply gently with fingers.Get in pest control to focus on books being damaged by insects.