How bad are clear plastic book sleeves/bags really? I know they're generally not recommended.

Submitted by LocalChamp t3_1177vco in books

To clarify this is a totally sealed thing not just like a cover protector or something. Also I'm not sure where exactly to purchase similar kinds of whole book sleeves because originally I had kept it in the bubble wrap bag it was shipped inside.

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I have an art book I don't look through often so it's been on display on my shelf mostly. However I keep it a thin clear plastic sleeve that some art prints came in to keep it clean from dust etc. I know this generally isn't recommended because of moisture issues etc. But from my perspective if it's in a climate and moisture controlled place and out of the sun what's the harm in lessening the dusting/cleaning I have to do? Currently this is just one book but I was eventually planning to buy physical copies of books I read via ebook or audio book and I would likely want to do the same for them as well.

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RideThatBridge t1_j9akacv wrote

Honestly, I don't know much about this, but to really claim it's in a climate and moisture controlled environment that would prevent damage, that would be museum level controls, not residential. So, over time, my guess is that you will have some issues.

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LocalChamp OP t1_j9aswoi wrote

I mean it's a residence. But there's a difference between what I'm talking about and just leaving a book out potentially in the sun from windows, maybe in a basement or upper level that isn't adequately cooled or heated, or in an area with abnormally high humidity etc. I have Trading Cards I've been keeping in good condition for a long time but that's a bit different than books.

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RideThatBridge t1_j9au0s3 wrote

Then, I guess you can just try it and see.

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EDIT: When you say "Plastic sleeve", I was picturing a book cover made of plastic. I don't know what you are referencing at this point.

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reddit455 t1_j9atchb wrote

>whole book sleeves

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you mean a display case?

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Zanish t1_j9b140i wrote

If it's climate and moisture controlled the bag is defeating the purpose. The bag will seal in moisture and then defeat the controlled env. In addition most books will release some chemicals over time due to ink, paper, color, etc. If you seal that all in the bag it can damage the book instead of just floating away. If it's out of the sun just get a bookcase with a glass door so you don't have to dust and keep them good.

https://www.lcgsco.org/dont-store-books-or-documents-in-sealed-plastic/

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