Touch your book only with clean hands. Many collectors would be horrified at the thought of collectible first editions being read, but if you do decide to read your book, use clean hands and keep contact to a minimum. Keep the book well supported underneath while you read. Never bend back pages, place the open book face downwards on a flat surface or break the spine. The American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works suggests investing in a clear book jacket, available from many large bookstores, to keep the original dust jacket fresh and clean.
Store your first editions upright and well supported by other books or bookends. Storing books at an angle or allowing them to slump sideways places stress on the structure and can lead to irreparable damage. Store larger books horizontally in stacks of no more than three or four. The University of Oxford's Bodleian Library urges readers to avoid pulling shelved books out by their spines, an action which can result in ripping and serious damage.
Store your books away from sources of strong light. The high levels of ultraviolet radiation in daylight and fluorescent light are particularly damaging, and will quickly cause your first editions to fade and deteriorate. Excess heat will dry out and damage leather and paper, while overly moist conditions encourage mold growth. Your first editions will last best in a stable, cool, dry environment. For books in regular use, the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works recommends a temperature of around 70 F and a relative humidity rate of around 50 per cent. If your local environment tends to be more moist than this, consider investing in a dehumidifier.
Investigate museum-style storage solutions if your first editions are older or more delicate--for example, books with fragile pages or leather binding. Museum conservators use acid-free paper and boxes to protect delicate objects. A professional conservator can give you advice on these options.