Protecting Book Collections

A lot has been written about protecting and caring for art work but I rarely seen articles about caring for books.  I collect art and local history books and often wonder if I am taking the right steps to preserve these priceless items.

Some time ago I read the book, The Care of Fine Books, by author Jane Greenfield.  This book is a helpful guide book for those of us that are serious about caring for our collections.  Some of the  things that are mentioned are protection from light, cleaning and dusting and the shelving of books.  Proper handling of the book and making sure proper the proper climate is maintained is also mentioned.

I volunteer a large library where the books and periodicals are cared for at a very high level.  The books, magazines and journals are stored in a light and temperature controlled environment.   The humidity is also controlled.  It’s not too humid or too dry.  They use no-nonsense metal bookshelves that are sturdy and do not sag.  Special clamps are used to keep the books and other publications upright on the shelves.  There shelves are not over croweded.   It seems like every  precaution has been made to insure that the books are properly maintained.

www.nellasbooksandcollectibles.ecrater.com

 

Although I do a lot to care for the books I treasure, I’m pretty sure there is much more I can do.  I I think most of us would like to believe that our book collections will be around for a very long time.

Sendak - More Than Children's Books

A lot has been said about Maurice Sendak due to his passing this week.   I have enjoyed reading his books for children especially the award winning book, Where the Wild Things Are.  Very few writers who are also illustrators have accomplished as much as Maurice Sendak.  What is not widely known about this artist is that his illustrations extend to more than just children’s books.

In the book, The Art of Maurice Sendak, friend and playwright, Tony Kushner writes about Sendak's life and art work.  In addition to books for children, Sendak illustrated a few CD covers and posters.   He became a stage designer in 1975.  He was subsequently worked as the designer for several stage productions.  Sendak collaborated with Carole King on an animated special for CBS, Really Rosie.  He also produced the covers for books of other writers.

Maurice Sendak was a true artist.  He was the award-winning author and illustrator of children’s books and much more.