Books in a library see a lot of use, and librarians are constantly reviewing and mending them in order to maintain a quality collection. But blindly repairing every book as it is damage can lead to a waste of public funds and eventually a trashy, poor quality collection filled with needed items. How do libraries identify what is repairable damage, and what is not?
What maintenance do books need?
Books in a library are loaned out to hundreds of people during their lifespan, and while users generally try to be responsible with them, accidents do often occur. Aside from this, regular use of any object will result in wear and eventual damage which should be addressed before the item is used again.
Preventative maintenance begins with a dust jacket or Mylar cover around the book to prevent dust, dirt, and micro-abrasions from everyday use. Tape may be added to key areas of the cover to reinforce the cover, and some books can even be sent away to be hard bound before the library puts them on the shelves. Once a book is damaged, small tears and rips can be taped, loose sections can be glued, and some libraries can even cut off a book's spine and spiral bind it to prolong its life.
How you can help.
The most important thing that you can keep in mind when using library materials is to respect the book. Other people have used that book before you, and others want to use it after you are done.
Writing, highlighting, dog-earing, or various stains all distract from the content of the book, and damage the experience of those who use it after you. When damage does happen (and it will), let your librarian know so that they can take care of the damage quickly. And don't be afraid to speak up. Librarians understand that accidents happen, but we need your help to make sure it doesn't stick around.
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