Handling

How to Use Book Supports and Handle Fragile Materials 

• For older, tightly bound or fragile books, book supports are essential.  
• Prop covers with foam supports adapted to the size and thickness of the book.  
• These can be obtained from library staff.  
• Do not force a book to lie open.  
• Use snake weights to hold pages open.  
• These can be obtained from Library staff.  

How a book opens depends on its condition, construction, and the materials from which it is made. Items may be constructed from poor quality materials, or materials which are now aged, weak and brittle. If forced open, leather may crack, cloth may tear, and brittle paper may split and disintegrate.  

If in doubt, ask a member of library staff.  

Snake weights distribute weight evenly across the open book. They can be used horizontally across the width of the book, or vertically along its length.  

If books include foldouts, open one foldout at a time and fold this back before opening another.  

If books are stored in boxes for conservation purposes: 

Open the box carefully. 

Remove the book with two hands. 

When finished, replace the book as you found it.  

Make sure the box is correctly closed.  

Some books need to be secured with ties – see our guide here: