Book Storage Question

I have some books I want to store in an outside building which is
protected from the elements (e.g. rain, wind, dust, etc). They will be
in small sealed, cardboard boxes (12' x 12" x 12"). I am thinking of
also wrapping them in plastic stretch wrap (the stuff they use on
shipping pallets) thus giving extra level of protection.

My question: Is this in any way harmful to the books. I imagine it
would create an airtight seal and I was wondering if this is bad or
good for the books.

They are not collection quality books, just mostly non-fiction books I
have yet to read and may eventually give away.

Thanks.

George M.

"George M" <udaman19(takethis out)@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:g86cp0pnrhvj6i91kapa34vol9qqs795ae@4ax.com...

 > I have some books I want to store in an outside building which is
 > protected from the elements (e.g. rain, wind, dust, etc). They will be
 > in small sealed, cardboard boxes (12' x 12" x 12"). I am thinking of
 > also wrapping them in plastic stretch wrap (the stuff they use on
 > shipping pallets) thus giving extra level of protection.
 >
 > My question: Is this in any way harmful to the books. I imagine it
 > would create an airtight seal and I was wondering if this is bad or
 > good for the books.



Probably the main thing to watch out for, when with sealing books in
airtight conditions, are any problems which may be present before you
start. i.e if there's any fungal growth or insects present, even larvae,
then these may be ideally suited by such conditions. Although with
relatively modern books these are unlikely to be present in any case.
Another point is that if the books are stored away and not inspected
on a regular basis, then if any problems do develop, then these may
become very serious before they're even noticed.

As with cellars, any mention of outside buildings immediately gives
rise to thoughts about about excess humidity and\or damp. Which
would normally depend on the local climatic conditions, and the degree of
ventilation. So that in ideal conditions, the books would survive
perfectly happily on open shelves. But in less than ideal conditions
it may also mean that extra care needs to be taken with the storage
depending on the local situation.



michael adams

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 >
 > They are not collection quality books, just mostly non-fiction books I
 > have yet to read and may eventually give away.
 >
 > Thanks.
 >
 > George M.
 >
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