Opening Closed Pages

In older books one sometimes finds pages that are still closed.  You want to read the print inside those joined pages.  Caution!  Don't damage the book by doing it incorrectly.  Do not slip your finger inside to rip it apart.  That will leave you with two ragged pages.  Do not use a sharp instrument like a knife to slice it open.  The knife often slips off the fold and cuts a V until it finds its way back to the fold.  One sheet will have a piece missing, and the opposite sheet will have a dangling particle. 

Now the correct way:  Use an index card.  Or a business card.  Slide it between the pages at an angle and start sawing.  Voila! Or if you prefer, Eueka!  A clean cut, very slightly deckled. 

Just be sure the pages are meant to be separated.  Peak inside to make sure there is print hidden in there.  If instead, it is white, it is not meant to be cut.  That is the style of that book.

There are as many people who say don't do it to a collectible book - leave it in its original state, as there are people who say go ahead and open it.  Just read that collectible book carefully. 

When I was interviewed on radio, the host asked, "What is the first thing I should do when I get a collectible book"?   I said, "Wash your hands."

-- Florence      

PS  Read John Chamberlin's response to Killer Books.  A good put-down comment.  I admit to backing off and agreeing with him.  F

 

Comments

[Paul Kaplan]

This is a very good tip. It underscores her overall theme of keeping the book in its pristine original state. Now what do we do about readers who prefer to sip their coffee while browsing through reading material?