Articals

Caring for Old Books: A Practical Guide

5 October 2026
Simple steps that keep your old books beautiful and valuable for years.

An old book responds to light, humidity and heat, and a little quiet care keeps it in good shape for decades.

Choose the right shelf. Keep books away from direct sunlight, heat and damp rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Shelve them upright. Stand books side by side with gentle support, or lay large heavy volumes flat, so their spines keep their shape.

Handle with clean, dry hands, open old bindings gently, and dust shelves and top edges with a soft brush.

Use acid-free bookmarks in place of tape and metal clips. Every item from Nora Inkwell arrives hand-wrapped, ready for its new shelf.

By Sara