How to Protect and Maintain Your Manga Collection ?

Introduction

Manga is no longer just a Japanese cultural expression; it has transformed into a global phenomenon, captivating millions of fans around the world. From "Naruto" to "One Piece", and even more niche works like "Berserk", manga has found its place not only on our shelves but also in our hearts. However, when we talk about shelves, we immediately think of "collection." And here, of course, arises an important question for every devoted fan: how do you preserve the excellence and value of this collection that means so much to you?

This issue is far from trivial. Paper can yellow, covers can get damaged, and humidity is the silent enemy constantly lurking. However, fear not! There are indeed effective strategies to protect and maintain your precious manga collection, ensuring that it remains in excellent condition for years, if not decades.

In this article, we will guide you through various methods and techniques to ensure proper preservation and, consequently, a longer lifespan for your collection. We will discuss the choice of shelf location and type, the importance of stable environmental conditions, suitable protective materials, as well as tips for regular maintenance, documentation, and even insurance for your precious volumes. Get ready to become the manga preservation expert you've always dreamed of being!

1. Choosing the Right Storage Location

To properly preserve the quality of your manga collection, the choice of storage location is a crucial step that can affect the durability and longevity of your treasured volumes.

1.1. Temperature and Humidity

When it comes to collecting manga, the environment in which you store them is critical. A room with controlled temperature and humidity can make the difference between a collection that lasts and one that deteriorates. Remember that paper is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture. Thus, an overly humid environment can speed up mold growth, while extreme temperatures can cause irreversible damage. Ideally, aim for a room temperature between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius, and a relative humidity of around 50%.

1.2. Lighting

Light, especially sunlight, is another often overlooked factor that can fade your precious volumes over time. Indeed, prolonged exposure to UV rays can seriously compromise the visual integrity of your manga. For this reason, it's recommended to store your collection in a well-lit room without direct sunlight. If this isn't possible, consider artificial lighting solutions like LEDs, which provide gentler light.

1.3. Shelf Selection

The choice of furniture for storing your collection can also influence its condition. Solid wood shelves are often recommended because of their sturdiness, but ensure that the wood is properly treated to prevent any risk of acidity or residual moisture. Metal shelves are also an option, but they can sometimes have sharp edges that might damage the covers. Regarding arrangement, make sure to leave some space between each volume to avoid excessive pressure that could warp them over time.

2. Protective Materials

Let's now delve into another crucial yet often overlooked aspect of manga preservation: protective materials that can make all the difference between a fading collection and one that remains in perfect condition for years.

2.1. Plastic Covers

Physical protection of each volume is a key element in maintaining the value and quality of your manga collection. Plastic covers often provide an affordable and highly effective means to achieve this. Not only do they shield your volumes from scratches, dirt, and humidity, but they also help maintain their original shape. However, not all plastics are created equal, and as a result, neither are the covers. Some cheap materials can emit gases that accelerate paper aging. For this reason, Manga Kif recommends polyethylene or polypropylene covers, such as the Mylar or Brodart brands, which are specifically designed for long-term preservation.

2.2. Storage Boxes

If your collection is seriously expanding, or if you own particularly rare or valuable editions, then storage boxes are your ally. Storage boxes offer additional protection against external elements and make managing storage space easier. It's also an effective way to group specific series or authors together. Acid-free cardboard boxes are often recommended for their durability and chemical neutrality. However, for maximum protection, sealed plastic boxes are an even safer choice.

3. Regular Maintenance

Beyond the initial choice of storage location and protective materials, regular maintenance of your manga collection is crucial to ensure their longevity and quality over time.

3.1. Dusting

While dust may seem like a harmless foe, it can actually be detrimental to your manga, damaging the covers and speeding up paper aging. Therefore, regular dusting is essential to keep your collection in perfect condition. The recommended frequency is at least once a month for volumes you frequently read and every three months for those you rarely open. For this potentially tedious task, Manga Kif advises using a microfiber cloth and strongly recommends avoiding wet cloths that could harm the paper.

3.2. Cleaning Stains and Marks

Even with the utmost care, accidents can happen. Whether you've spilled some coffee or accumulated fingerprints, it's important to know how to address these "unfortunate incidents" without damaging the paper. Opt for gentle products like white erasers or alcohol-free wipes, and avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia-based cleaners that can discolor or deteriorate the paper.

4. Tracking and Documentation

While the physical protection of your manga is crucial, tracking and documentation should not be overlooked; they are equally important steps to enhance the value and longevity of your collection over the years.

4.1. Cataloging

Cataloging is not just a matter of organization; it's also an important step in ensuring the longevity and value of your manga collection. Detailed inventory allows you to track the condition of each volume, identify missing pieces, and even determine the ideal time for sale or exchange. Several applications and collection management software are available online to assist you in this task, such as Libib or MyStuff2. These tools enable you to add photos, descriptions, and even the condition of each volume, making the tracking process more efficient and interactive.

4.2. Insurance

As your collection grows in size and value, the option of specific insurance becomes increasingly relevant. It's not just a means to protect your financial investment but also a way to ensure the preservation of pieces that may have priceless sentimental value. To have your collection assessed, consult experts in the field who can provide an estimation based on criteria such as rarity, condition, and age of the volumes. Some specialized insurers offer plans designed exclusively for collections, including manga collections!

Conclusion

In conclusion, preserving your manga collection requires attention to several key steps. From the thoughtful choice of storage location to the use of quality protective materials, and from regular maintenance to cataloging, each step matters to ensure the longevity and value of your collection.

But why all this effort? Because a well-maintained collection is not just a financial investment; it is also a cultural and emotional legacy that you can share with future generations. So, take the time today to protect and maintain your precious manga so that you can continue to fully enjoy them for years to come.