Restoration Books
Preserving historical collections through the conservation
and restoration
of antiquarian books and ephemera.

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leather repaircustom enclosuresencapsulationdeacidificationpaper repairedition binding
De-acidification
Books, for the most part, are made from natural materials that have naturally occurring acids. The browning and spotting of paper, known as foxing, is the result of different acids in the paper breaking down and deteriorating over time. This can also be caused through exposure to oils from your hands as well as atmospheric pollutants. This effect cannot be reversed, but it is possible to minimize further damage. After cleaning the pages of a book, or a document, I will often spray a protective layer of de-acidification solution that neutralizes any acids present, as well as creating a buffer from future exposure. This will ensure that your treasures will be preserved for years to come.

"You don't have to burn books to destroy a culture. Just get people to stop reading them." -Ray Bradbury
 

ALL CONTENT © 2006 RESTORATION BOOKS, MICHAEL ATHA