How I Store My Books Between Print Runs

How I Store My Books Between Print Runs

“Books are the treasured wealth of the world and the fit inheritance of generations and nations.”

— Henry David Thoreau

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This week I have been doing one of the parts of publishing that isn't talked about much, taking care of the physical books that already exist.

When books arrive from the printer, they are not always heading straight out the door. Some are held back for future orders, libraries, events, or simply because I am building a catalogue slowly over time to keep for myself. I wanted a storage setup that keeps them safe without overthinking it and wasn't quite sure the proper method for storing books.

These boxes are not meant to be filled all at once. I will be adding to them gradually as new books are published, keeping one copy of each title for myself. A separate box using the same techniques is used for gifting, events, or mailing, so the stored copies can stay undisturbed.

Sturdy plastic totes, not cardboard

I am using solid plastic totes that seal properly with lids rather than cardboard boxes you can see that additional layer that goes around the top of the lid to create an air tight seal. Cardboard can absorb moisture from the air, especially over long periods, and I wanted something more stable to keep my books in. The totes are roughly the size of a banker’s box, just a bit wider.

Before sealing them closed, I packed everything on a dry day and let the totes sit open for a while so I was not trapping damp air inside. 

Sealed totes like these can be found at Costco, Amazon and other major retailers. 

Tip for storing sealed boxes

If a tote is stored anywhere with a concrete floor like in a basement or garage, it's recommended to place a layer underneath it. Cardboard, a thin board, or a shelf all work. This creates a small buffer from temperature changes and helps prevent additional condensation where plastic meets cement.

Glassine paper for wrapping books

I didn't just place each book into the box, first I wrapped loosely in glassine paper. Not sealed or  taped like you would when you're wrapping a gift. Just folded gently like a soft envelope around each book. I really like how thin it is, you can easily see the titles through the paper without having to unwrap a book to find what you are looking for.

What is Glassine Paper?

Glassine is a smooth, semi-transparent paper that is acid-free and safe for long-term contact with books. This paper is often used in libraries, archives, and print shops because it protects paper surfaces without sealing them off from air.

I am not trying to protect the books from the world. The goal is simply to create a buffer between them while the are being stored in the boxes. The glassine reduces friction between covers, prevents scuffing, and adds a breathable layer between books that may be stored together for months at a time.

The wraps are intentionally relaxed and nothing is pulled tight onto the pages. The books can slide out easily without stressing the spine or corners.

You can buy glassine paper from Amazon, art supply stores or places like Uline.

Silica gel for moisture control

Inside each tote, I added a colour-indicating silica gel pack. This helps manage small changes in humidity over time and gives me a visual cue if the pack ever needs recharging. The pack sits along the side of the tote rather than between books. It is there to manage the air inside the box, not to press against the books themselves. 

I like the reusable silica packs that you can find these days because they tell you when they need to be refreshed vs guessing when it needs to be replaced like the little ones that you find inside of handbags or clothing packages. 

Silica gel packs can be found at hardware stores, major retailers and, of course, Amazon.

Random checks, not constant handling

I am not opening and rechecking these boxes every week. The plan is to check them a few times a year, make sure everything still looks and smells like paper, and recharge the silica gel pack if needed.

These books are meant to be handled rarely, not fussed over endlessly or used for regular reading. Storing the books this way means that these books are meant to last.

You can explore all of our current titles on our Books Page.

If you'd like to help share our works, visit our Libraries Page for circulation details and ISBNs.

Our books are available through major retailers including Chapters, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, and Waterstones.