How to identify, prevent, and remove mold from books

Imagine discovering a wonderful book in your favorite used bookstore or thrift store, one that seems perfect to add to your collection. However, it has a pervasive, musty smell that raises concerns. This odor can suggest improper storage, which may lead to mold growth. To help you assess the condition of your used books, here's a useful guide with resources on how to identify, prevent, and remove mold and mildew from your collection.

Are those spots foxing or mold?

Foxing is the age-related browning, or brown-yellowish spots, that can occur on book paper over time. When this aging process happens to the paper in a book, it is referred to as "foxed". The term may derive from the rust-brown color of the paper's aging process or from a chemical used to coat paper called ferric oxide. Foxing may also be caused by fungal growth on the paper, chemical reactions, or high humidity.

Caring for your book collection - Basic tips from a professional bookseller

We routinely hear from customers who want to know the best way to take care of their books. Sadly, we also hear from customers who have inadvertently stored their books improperly, eroding the value of their beloved book collections. We thought we’d take this opportunity to share with you some tips on how to take care of your books, gleaned from seasoned professional booksellers.

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