The Best Book Storage Box

Buying Guide

Books are precious commodities. Whether it’s your home library or your children’s favorite picture books, you want a way to keep them safe when they aren’t in use. At the very least, you may eventually need to pack your books up and move them, which requires the appropriate storage box.

If you’ll be storing your books for any length of time, though, the best box likely isn’t a box at all. Storage containers will help keep moisture at bay and reduce the risk that your books will suffer light exposure, which can make chemical changes on paper, leather and cloth.

You might be surprised to hear, though, that there’s a good reason books are typically stored in bookcases. Airflow is good for books. It keeps the pages dry, reducing the risk that pages will become brittle due to humidity exposure. Ideally, you’ll store your books in an interior room so that sunlight and heat won’t affect their pages.

Both plastic and cardboard will work for storing your books short term. Plastic bins that seal up completely can prevent outside humidity and moisture from seeping in. But, if you go that route, you’ll need to make extra sure there’s no lingering moisture when you place your books inside, since that airtight seal will also ensure any moisture inside can’t get out. Silica gel packets can help give you a little extra protection. For long-term storage, consider acid-free archival boxes and make sure you keep your books in a dry, dark, temperature-controlled location.

• Many storage containers come with lids. If you choose this option, make sure the lids seal up tight, both to keep moisture out and to ensure the lid doesn’t come off while you’re carrying the box. Easy-carry handles can come in handy for moving your boxes from one place to another.
• Multiple containers or boxes will probably need to be stacked for the most efficient storage. Look for containers or boxes with lids that easily fit together, so you can put boxes on top of each other.
• If you’ve decided to get a cardboard box for your books, look for corrugated cardboard. This is stronger than regular cardboard, so it’ll hold more books. You can also find cardboard boxes made from recycled material if you’re concerned about eco-friendliness.
• While they’re in storage, you’ll occasionally need to track down one or more of the books you’ve packed away. Some containers are clear so you can see internal contents, and others are made for easy labeling of their contents. Be as specific as possible when you’re labeling; you may be grateful later when you’re searching for a book.
• One thing to consider is how heavy books can get when packed into a box, especially hardcovers. You’ll want to limit the number of books you stuff into each box.
• Before you buy a storage container, you may wish to measure your valuable books and make sure they’ll fit inside. Some containers may work better if you lay books flat, while others may allow you to insert them vertically.
• It’s important to do everything you can to prevent mold and mildew during storage. You’ll want your books to be completely dry before you box them up. Don’t wrap the books in plastic since that can trap moisture and cause problems. You’ll also want to avoid wrapping them up in newspaper since the print can rub off on the books. Instead, consider using archival paper.