Only use pencils around books and paper--do not use pens, highlighters, and/or markers around these items.
Avoid using paper clips and rubber bands.
Also avoid using any and all tape including sticky notes. Sticky notes, even if placed on a library item for a short amount of time, will immediately start damaging library items. Instead of sticky notes, use paper bookmarks--white copy paper will do. Employees can easily write notes on the bookmarks and tuck them into books as needed. Avoid using colored paper as the colorant can bleed onto library materials.
Avoid any gripping/paper aid when flipping through pages of books and avoid licking your fingers for the same purpose. If the paper is fragile and you are concerned about turning the pages, a micro spatula can be used. You can also contact conservation on advice on how best to handle fragile items or items whose pages are difficult to turn.
Use only library spine labels and barcodes purchased through the libraries. See the Storage Items section for guidance on library labels.
Avoid tape and other sticky labels, especially on the covers. If other information needs to be in a book, purchase an ink stamp and stamp the inner covers with the information that is needed. If your spine labels are coming off, dry-clean the area with a white eraser first and then try the label. Contact preservation if the problem persists.
Again, contact preservation before using any other materials on library items.
Boxes are rarely used for circulating items as they tend to be displaced from their item quickly. In the event that the library and conservation feel like a box would be beneficial to a circulating item, that box should have a clear, inert polyester (i.e. Mylar) spine so all employees can see if the item is still in the box on the shelf for security reasons.
Researchers checking out items with a box should be informed that they are responsible for the item and the box and that both need to be returned in good order when checking the item back to the libraries.
See the Storing Items section for more information about boxes and all other appropriate item holders/containers.
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