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How to Keep Book Dust Jackets Pristine

Books are often passed down through generations as family heirlooms, and many of these are rare and valuable collector̵7;s items. Most publishers shield books from moisture, dirt and accidents using a dust jacket. However, even these protective coverings can become worn with time or use. Maintaining your dust jackets is the first step in keeping your books in good condition, as many book collectors will dismiss the value of a rare first edition book if the dust jacket is missing or damaged.

Things You'll Need

Polyester book covers

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the dust jackets from your books when you wish to read them. Dust jackets can become creased and damaged if you keep them on while opening the book and turning the pages.
- 2
  Wrap your dust jackets in polyester covers, available online in a variety of sizes from many suppliers. Polyester covers maintain the appearance and value of rare books and their dust jackets. Purchase 10-inch polyester covers to accommodate the average hard-backed book.
- 3
  Preserve the area of the dust jacket that lists the price and do not color it in with black marker, even if you are giving the book as a gift. This will detract from the book̵7;s value and mar the pristine appearance of a brand new dust jacket.
- 4
  Position covered books on shelves that do not touch outside walls. For example, place your bookshelves against a wall that separates the living room from the kitchen, rather than one that separates the living room from the outdoors. Exposure to moisture and changes in temperature, which occur near outer walls, can even damage a dust jacket that is shielded by a polyester cover.

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