How to Handle Old Books: Tips for Aspiring Collectors

Gloves hands v. hands !
Don't Handle Old Books with White Gloves On

As mentioned, white gloves are unnecessary when handling old books. In fact, wearing gloves increases the chance of damaging paper. Try flipping through a 17th-century book with gloves on – it's impossible without tearing the paper. You should handle an (old) book with:

Clean, dry hands: So, wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching books.

Support the spine: Never force a book open flat. Use a book stand or cushion to support the spine, especially for larger works. Where can you get such a cushion? Among other places, from GWM in Germany or PEL in the UK.

Limit direct contact: Don't pull a book from the shelf by tugging at the top of the spine. Instead, grip the book across the spine by both boards to avoid damaging the spine.

How to Handle Old Books: Tips for Aspiring Collectors

Gloves hands v. hands !
Don't Handle Old Books with White Gloves On

As mentioned, white gloves are unnecessary when handling old books. In fact, wearing gloves increases the chance of damaging paper. Try flipping through a 17th-century book with gloves on – it's impossible without tearing the paper. You should handle an (old) book with:

Clean, dry hands: So, wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching books.

Support the spine: Never force a book open flat. Use a book stand or cushion to support the spine, especially for larger works. Where can you get such a cushion? Among other places, from GWM in Germany or PEL in the UK.

Limit direct contact: Don't pull a book from the shelf by tugging at the top of the spine. Instead, grip the book across the spine by both boards to avoid damaging the spine.