With rising temperatures and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, book collectors are facing new challenges in preserving their treasured special editions. Rare books and limited editions are particularly vulnerable to environmental damage, with elements like humidity, heat, and insects posing serious threats to their condition and value.

“Collectors often don’t realise how quickly environmental factors can permanently damage special edition books,” explains Taskeen Ahmed, Founder of Awesome Books, “The materials used in premium editions—from leather bindings to specialty papers—usually require more careful protection than standard books.”

So let’s move on to the Why and How of it: Why Special Editions Need Extra Protection against insects, humidity, and extreme weather conditions.

Unlike mass-produced paperbacks, special edition books typically contain materials that are particularly susceptible to damage. 

“Limited editions frequently include elements like handmade paper, leather bindings, specialty inks, and sometimes even fabric components,” Ahmed explains. “These materials can be magnets for various insects and are more sensitive to humidity and temperature fluctuations.”

The value of special editions can decrease significantly with even minor damage. Small insect holes, water stains, or warped covers can reduce a collector’s item from mint condition to fair or poor, potentially decreasing its value by 50% or more.

And now the How: Ahmed’s Tips For Protecting Your Special Editions

1. Control Temperature and Humidity. “The ideal environment for storing valuable books is cool, dry, and stable,” says Ahmed. “Aim for temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C) and relative humidity between 30-50%.” Fluctuations in temperature and humidity cause paper and binding materials to expand and contract, leading to warping and deterioration over time. Consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas or a humidifier in overly dry environments to maintain optimal conditions.

2. Shield From Direct Light. UV light causes fading and deterioration of book covers and pages, particularly affecting colorful dust jackets and illustrated pages. “Never display your valuable books in direct sunlight,” Ahmed advises. “Even artificial light can cause damage over time, so consider UV-filtering glass for display cases or protective book covers for items on open shelves.”

3. Use Acid-Free Materials. Regular cardboard boxes and standard plastic bags can release chemicals that damage books over time. “Always store special editions with acid-free materials,” recommends Ahmed. “Acid-free boxes, archival sleeves, and unbleached cotton or linen cloths are best for wrapping or storing valuable books. Avoid plastic containers, which can trap moisture and accelerate mould growth.”

4. Implement Pest Prevention Strategies. Insects like silverfish, booklice, and carpet beetles are attracted to the starch in book bindings and the protein in leather covers. “Regular inspection is your first line of defense,” Ahmed notes. “Look for small holes, tiny droppings, or shed insect skins. Keep food away from your collection area and consider natural deterrents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets, which many insects dislike but won’t damage your books.”

5. Create Air Circulation. Stagnant air creates conditions where mould can thrive, particularly in closed bookcases pushed against walls. “Position bookcases a few inches from walls and avoid overcrowding books on shelves,” says Ahmed. “This simple step improves air circulation and reduces the risk of mould growth, which can quickly spread through an entire collection.”

6. Use Proper Shelving Techniques. How books are positioned on shelves impacts their structural integrity over time. “Store books of similar size together and use bookends to keep them upright without leaning,” Ahmed advises. “Very large or heavy books should lie flat, but don’t stack too many on top of each other as this creates pressure on the bottom books. For particularly valuable editions, consider individual archival boxes that protect from light, dust, and physical damage.”

7. Prepare For Weather Emergencies. With extreme weather events becoming more common, collectors need emergency plans to protect their investments. “Keep valuable books on higher shelves to protect from potential flooding, and consider waterproof containers for your most precious items during storm seasons,” says Ahmed. “If you live in an area prone to extreme humidity or temperature fluctuations, investing in climate control equipment isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential protection for your collection.”

Taskeen Ahmed, Founder of Awesome Books, continued: “The preservation challenges facing book collectors are increasing as our climate changes. Higher average temperatures create more favourable conditions for book-damaging insects, while extreme weather events put collections at greater risk of water damage and humidity fluctuations. Taking preventative steps now is much more effective than trying to restore damaged books later.

“What many collectors don’t realise is that prevention doesn’t need to be complex or expensive. Simple measures like keeping books away from external walls, using proper shelving techniques, and implementing basic pest monitoring can dramatically extend the life of special editions. The key is consistency—regularly checking your collection for early signs of problems and maintaining stable environmental conditions.

“For those with particularly valuable collections, I recommend creating a preservation plan that includes both everyday care and emergency procedures. Knowing exactly what to do if you spot insect activity or face a sudden climate event can mean the difference between preserving your literary treasures and losing them forever.”

As the author of over 25 books, your editor should know these facts. Trust me, she didn’t, and thanks to Taskeen Ahmed (https://www.awesomebooks.com/) for tips that will serve for looking after books in general, but your precious collections in particular.