Tips for Safe, Long-Term Storage of a Large, Personal Library

As a book lover who is forced to store your personal library for the long-term in a rented storage unit, you are right to feel apprehensive about possible damage. Books that are incorrectly stored can become permanently damaged by mold and warping. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to ensure that your book collection will be safe while it is being stored, including each of these time-tested tips:

Tip: Save on Storage Costs by Purging Your Unwanted Books while Packing

If you are concerned about the monthly costs of storing your large library, then you can save yourself some money by carefully purging any unwanted books before you pack them. Though it is always hard to cull your book collection, if it allows you to rent a smaller storage unit, then this task will save you money on rental fees every month your books are in storage. 

Tip: Only Store Your Books Laying Flat in High-Quality Cardboard Boxes

So that your books will come out of your storage unit in exactly the same shape they went in, you should only store books in high-quality cardboard boxes. You should not store books in plastic tubs because they do not breathe and can lead to musty smelling books and mold growth. Lay your books flat in the boxes so that they will not warp or become otherwise disfigured while in storage. 

Tip: Place Desiccant Packs in Each Box to Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth

Since mold and mildew like to grow in damp and dark areas, your storage unit is a prime environment for their growth. To keep moisture away from your books, you should place a desiccant pack into each storage box. 

You can purchase desiccant packets at your local home improvement store, or you can start saving them when you find them included in new shoe and food packages. 

Tip: Keep Your Book Boxes Off of the Storage Unit's Floor

Finally, it is vital that you do not store your cardboard boxes of books on the storage unit floor. This is important because boxes stored on the floor could become damaged by flood water, insects, or rodents. To keep the boxes off of the floor, you should place some wood pallets directly on the floor. Cover the pallets with a plastic tarp and then place your book storage boxes on top of the tarp. Do not wrap the tarp over the boxes, because this can seal in moisture and lead to mold problems.

For more tips and to learn about your storage options, talk to a facility like East Valley Self Storage.

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