Scientists to smell library's books

Scientists are to sniff old books as part of a new conservation project centred on one of the UK's most famous libraries.

Chemists will analyse gases which cause smells to gauge the state of decay of books in Cambridge University's library.

Their research will help conservators decide which books need treating first.

Experts then aim to use similar forensic conservation methods at other libraries.

"When books start to decompose, they emit a complex mixture of organic compounds, including volatile acids, which then further contribute to their degradation," said a university spokeswoman.

"The same emissions cause the musty smell beloved of habitual 'book-sniffers'.

"By sampling the air in different parts of the library, researchers hope to identify the areas with a high acid content, so that the books can be treated before handling and damage cause further decay."

She added: "The aim is to improve the way the books are stored and, if possible, develop an early warning system that will alert the librarians when decaying books begin to produce significant quantities of destructive acids."

The university library has a collection of about 8 million books - around a quarter of which is stored on open shelves.

"Conservators involved are already predicting ways of reducing acid in storage, including specific filters in the air conditioning which could remove organic materials in the atmosphere," added the spokeswoman.

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