Many people take pride in their personal libraries, but some no longer have the space in their homes for books. Whether you're downsizing, moving, or in another transitional period, you want to ensure your beloved texts are stored safely in the interim. You can place them in storage units, but they need the proper preparation before you leave them behind. Here are some of the best practices to follow.

3 Tips for Storing Books in Storage Units

1. Keep Them Dry

Although you may not realize it, rooms with high humidity can leave a book's outer cover and pages moist and soft. If you notice any on your shelves feel this way, lay them open in a dry area to air them out. Packing damp text with other books can cause the wetness to spread, which will encourage mold growth on your beloved collection when they're all pressed together. 

2. Wrap in Specialized Paper

Ensure your books stay pristine by individually wrapping them in acid-free archival paper. This measure will protect the covers and shield the books against pests and moisture while being transported and stored away. 

Do not use newspaper or plastic to wrap your collection. The ink from the former bleeds into paperbacks and hardcover dust jackets, while the latter traps moisture and causes water damage. 

3. Consider Their Weight

Properly placing wrapped books into boxes requires strategy. Try to keep the hardcover ones together or on the bottom of the packages, and label what's in each container. 

You don't want to accidentally pile heavier books on top in the storage unit, as they can crush and deform the paperbacks beneath them. Also, avoid stacking your containers too high. Book collections are often heavy, even in paperback form, so too much weight could cause them to fall. 

Free up space in the home and keep your books safe by trusting Carolina Self Storage in Archdale, NC, with your collection. They offer storage units of various sizes, ranging from as small as 5'x10' to 10'x20'. The facility features security features like a fence, gated entry, and on-site staff. Call (336) 434-4367 to inquire about their monthly rates, or visit their website for more information on their units.