You've decided to collect and buy used books. How to keep them looking and smelling nice. Always a problem.

Used Books

You are buying a used book. The book may be in a varying state of condition (see our page on how we grade books).  If you have purchased a used book, we do not always know the provenance of the book as we get them from estate sales, book shows, and even are liquidating a bookstore inventory where the owner has passed away. Many of these books are out of print, meaning they are no longer being published.

If you have a book with a musty smell, it may be the beginning of mold, and you should contact us at once. Mold is a living organism that can jump from book to book.

If you receive a book that smells like smoke, it is possible it came from a smoking home. In fact, if it is very old, it probably has been around smoke as most of the world used to smoke, although many of those folks have died off, their smoke has not. To rid the book of smoke odor, seal in plastic with kitty litter for 48 hours. If it is still offensive, contact us for return and refund.

Humidity and dampness are a problem with books. Never store your books in a hot attic or a damp basement. If you live in a tropical climate, keep humidity inside your home to a low level, but not completely dry.

New Books

New books are brand new and are shipped from distributor to us at a discount so that we can ship to you at a discounted rate.

Leather Books

Leather books can be cared for in a variety of ways. Do not feel that you cannot handle the book. Leather is sturdy. Pet your books. The oil in your skin will not damage leather. If you wish, you may run with a tiny bit of Neats Oil. Some use a lavender wax which is available from Great Britain.

It is our wish for your book to a joyful addition to your reading or collection. Please email us with any problems or questions.

Pulling a Book from a Shelf

Books should always be pulled by grasping the book in the center, slightly lifting off shelf and pulling straight out. Otherwise, you risk damaging the crown or tail of the spine.

Incorrect Method - Risk to Spine

Correct Method