19th Century Publishers' Bindings
While the presence of these compounds may sound alarming, the risk to researchers and staff is minimal under normal use. Exposure is most likely to occur through direct ingestion of pigment dust or through prolonged, careless handling. By following common-sense precautions, any potential risk can be fully managed.
Safe Handling Guidelines
- Follow staff instructions. If an item is identified as potentially containing hazardous pigments, staff will provide gloves or other protective equipment as appropriate.
- Wash your hands after handling any collection material, and always before eating, drinking, or touching your face.
- Handle gently. Avoid rubbing or scratching the surface of bindings, as this can disturb pigments and create dust.
- Use enclosures. Many of these volumes are stored in protective boxes or wrappers to minimize handling risks. Please return them to their enclosures after use.
- Request surrogates when possible. Digital copies or facsimiles may be provided if a book’s condition makes handling unsafe.
Kelvin Smith Library staff work closely with Case Western’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) to ensure that materials with potential hazards are identified, labeled, and managed responsibly. Our goal is to balance open access to cultural heritage with the health and safety of our patrons and staff.
Handled properly, these books pose no greater risk than other fragile 19th-century volumes, and they remain a valuable part of the historical record. With care and awareness, we can preserve their beauty and meaning while ensuring a safe research environment. Please visit the University of Delaware's Poison Book Project website for more extensive information.
