Does My Book Smell?

If you have ever visited an older library or vintage book shop, you may have noticed a peculiar smell lingering amid the shelves. Avid readers and historians are no doubt acquainted with that “old book smell,” a musty aroma that older books and documents produce. This distinct scent is caused by the emission of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, by the pages and binding of vintage books. While “old book smell” may be a familiar and comfortable companion of readers of older books, it could also be a key player in the preservation of books and documents. A recent article in Science Daily reported that VOCs are released as a book degrades, creating that musty odor. Analysis of these VOCs can be used to ascertain a book’s condition, providing a less destructive alternative to testing samples of a book or document using laboratory equipment. This technique will allow us to better preserve older books and historical documents without causing damage to the documents themselves. So, book lovers, rejoice! “Old book smell” can help you save that antique volume of Shakespeare you love so much.

Posted by Elizabeth Tristano