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Special Collections: Handling Archives and Rare Books

A: Book cushion. The spine is the most vulnerable part of a book, so cushions are used to provide adjustable support for a book. The cushions come in different sizes and can be moulded by hand to accommodate the preservation needs of different books.

B: Snake weights. These weights are used to gently restrain the leaves of books to hold them open while reading. They are best placed over the corners of a book, making sure, where possible, to only lie them over the blank parts of a page. The satin snake weights are slightly heavier.

C: Weight Bags. These provide surface protection while holding down rolled or curled items.

D: Bone files. This tool is used to carefully turn pages where we would not want to touch them, for example an illuminated manuscript where the delicate gold leaf could transfer to fingertips.

E: Domed glass weights. These weights can be used to hold open rolled or folded items and are useful when positioning as they allow you to see the object beneath. The glass also provides useful magnification. The smooth finish with rounded edges will not damage the object on which they are placed.

F: Leather weights. These weights can be used to hold open rolled or folded items without adhering to the surface. They safely offer more friction than a glass weight.
 

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