Skip to Main Content

Hilton M. Briggs Library Policies

Policy

SUBJECT: Exhibiting Bound Materials

NUMBER: 10.14

  1. Purpose

To establish guidelines to extend the life of bound materials in library exhibits.

  1. Policy

All library personnel will follow established procedures in order to prevent damage to bound materials in library exhibits.

  1. Procedures
  • Use clean hands.
  • Limit the length of the exhibit to no more than six months to prevent damage to books from extended exposure to light.
  • Do not use adhesive notes, paper clips, self-adhesive tape, or glue on books.
  • Examine the condition of the books to determine if they can be safely displayed. If necessary, consult the bindery technician to assess the condition of the binding.
  • When displaying closed volumes:
    • Display the book horizontally, at a gentle angle, or vertically with support
    • Use a stand large enough to hold the entire volume.  No part of the book should be unsupported because warping or damage to the binding may result.
  • When displaying open volumes:
    • Open the book only as much as the binding will comfortably allow. Do not lay it flat (180°). No part of the book should be unsupported because warping or damage to the binding may result.
    • If the pages do not remain open naturally, place a strip of polyester film around each side of the open book. Consult the bindery technician if necessary.
    • If the binding is too fragile for open display, make a facsimile of the desired page/s to exhibit with the closed book.
    • Consult the University Archivist if there are any questions.
  1. Related Documents

Guiding Principles of Preservation in Hilton M. Briggs Library

Care and Handling of Bound Materials policy

  1. Responsibility

The library Preservation Committee or designee is responsible for five-year and ad hoc review of this policy and related procedures. The Policy and Procedures Committee is responsible for review of this document every four years. The Dean of the Library is responsible for review and approval of this policy and associated revisions.

SOURCE:

                        Approved by:     Dean of the Library     April 11, 2023

                        Originally Adopted:     June 10, 2019

                        Revision dates:     April 11, 2023