HELOISE HINTS

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF BOOKS

* For large, heavy coffee table or oversized books, lay, store or display them flat (not upright) to protect the spine.

* For really dusty books, use the brush attachment of the vacuum cleaner to carefully remove it, but for books, with just light dust, gently wipe with a dry microfiber cloth.

* When books acquire a musty odor, vacuum up the dust first. Leave open (upright if possible) and sprinkle with a bit of cornstarch or baking soda. Then place the books into plastic zip bags, along with newspapers, for a week or so to help absorb that smell. Take the books outside, turn them upside down, and shake out any remaining cornstarch or baking soda.

* Store books in a dry location—never in a damp basement!

* When books get wet, put them in the freezer ASAP to prevent mold from growing. Wrap in freezer paper.

* Handle older books with care, don’t open them with force because you may crack the spines!

* Don’t use bookmarks that may bleed and ruin the pages. Instead try postcards, greetings cards or photos.

* Put a name plate or write your name, address and phone number, inside your books, so they get returned if you loan them to family or friends. Do this on the front inside of book, not on first page..it can be ripped out.