Ten Top Tips for handling volumes
1. If a book is shelved between other books, avoid pulling the book out by gripping the spine, which is the most vulnerable part of a book. Instead, reach one hand behind the book and gently push the book forwards, grasping it with the other hand.
2. Always carry a volume closed and with two hands. Support the book from underneath if it's heavy.
3. Volumes will need to be supported by cushions before being opened. There are different sizes of cushions, and the level of support needed is assessed on a case-by-case basis and will vary depending on the size, weight and condition of the volume.
4. Visually assess the condition before opening the volume, checking for any vulnerable areas, and take extra care where you notice these. Be aware of red rot in leather bound books, the powder can transfer to your hands and on to pages.
5. Find a suitable size cushion to rest your volume, use your hands or your forearm to form a dip down the centre to rest the spine of the book against. Carefully open the volume and listen to it - does it creak when you open it? Be mindful that the binding may be tight, and you may not be able to open the pages fully. Ask a member of staff for advice.
6. You can adjust the cushion to find an angle that avoids putting strain on the binding. Volumes can be set up at a comfortable 20º angle, with an opening not greater than 120º, the joints fully supported. Do not open volumes with tight bindings to a full 120º angle. As you progress through the volume, the supports can be adjusted to protect its vulnerable joints.
7. Turn the pages as little and as carefully as possible, gently guiding the page across and handling it as much as possible only by the blank parts. It is often best to use two hands to turn the pages, especially for larger or more fragile books. Take special care to avoid touching hand-drawn illustrations, illuminations and gold leaf. Pages can be held open by lying snake weights across each corner, but make sure to remove the weight before turning the next page. Avoid flicking through a volume, and remember not to lick your fingers to turn a page!
8. When you become absorbed in your work it is easy to forget handling techniques - be mindful not to lean on volumes or to read them on your lap instead of on the table.
9. Be careful not to drag volumes across the surface of the table, and close the volume carefully when you have finished.
10. Report any issues or signs of damage to a member of staff, or ask for help or advice if you are unsure about how to handle something. We're always happy to help!
University of Exeter LibGuide is licensed under CC BY 4.0
