Recent heat and humidity in New York City have caused paperback books in a Brooklyn bookstore to curl and deform. Books are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb and release moisture, which can distort them. Mold and insect infestations pose significant threats to damaged books. Preservationists manage conditions in libraries, maintaining 60 degrees and 35-55% humidity to reduce decay, mold, and insect issues. Although the curling is troubling, books are expected to return to normal once humidity levels decrease.
Books are what we call hygroscopic objects. That means that they are sensitive - they absorb and release moisture," Fifield explained. "Yes, it's hot out, but it's also really humid.
Mold can nestle between the pages of a damp book easily and without detection, providing a welcoming environment for bugs like silverfish, who then feast on the decorative finishes and the cellulose in the book's pages.
To prevent such an invasion, preservationists at the NYPL and other institutions keep a close eye on airflow. The library's special collections are kept at a consistent 60 degrees and the moisture content is kept within a 35-55% range.
The good news is that any curled books will likely revert to their original states when the humidity levels drop, though some.
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