How to keep a mummy manga

Overview

Manga, the Japanese style of comics, has gained immense popularity worldwide. For collectors and enthusiasts, preserving the condition of their manga volumes is often as important as the stories within them. "Keeping a mummy manga" refers to the practice of maintaining manga in excellent condition over the long term, akin to how an ancient mummy is preserved. This involves understanding the environmental factors that can damage paper and implementing strategies to mitigate those risks.

The paper used in manga, while durable for reading, is organic and prone to deterioration over time. Factors such as light exposure, humidity, temperature, pests, and even the handling it receives can impact its longevity. The goal of proper storage is to create an environment that minimizes these damaging influences, ensuring that the manga remains in pristine or near-pristine condition for years, or even decades, to come.

Details

Environmental Control: The Pillars of Preservation

The most critical aspect of preserving manga is controlling its environment. Think of it as creating a stable microclimate specifically designed for paper.

Light: The Silent Enemy

Ultraviolet (UV) light, present in sunlight and some artificial lighting, is a major culprit in the degradation of paper. UV rays break down the cellulose fibers in paper, leading to yellowing, brittleness, and fading of the ink. To combat this:

• Store in Darkness: Keep your manga away from direct sunlight and bright artificial lights. Bookshelves placed in a room with minimal natural light are ideal.
• Use UV-Filtering Materials: If displaying manga, consider using display cases or frames with UV-filtering glass or acrylic. Book sleeves made of archival-quality materials often offer some UV protection.
• Avoid Frequent Exposure: Minimize the time manga volumes are exposed to light, especially when taking them out for reading or re-arranging.

Humidity: The Moisture Menace

Paper is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. High humidity levels (above 60%) create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause staining, odor, and irreversible damage to the pages and covers. Conversely, very low humidity can make paper brittle.

• Maintain Stable Humidity: Aim for a relative humidity level between 40% and 55%. This range is generally considered safe for paper products.
• Use Dehumidifiers/Humidifiers: In areas with extreme humidity, consider using a dehumidifier (in humid climates) or a humidifier (in dry climates) to maintain the target range.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure the storage area is well-ventilated to prevent stagnant, moist air pockets. Avoid storing manga in basements or attics, which are prone to moisture issues.
• Avoid Plastic Bags (Mostly): While plastic bags can protect from dust, they can trap moisture if not completely airtight and the environment is humid. If using bags, ensure they are breathable or that the environment is very stable. Archival-quality polypropylene or Mylar sleeves are generally preferred over standard plastic bags.

Temperature: The Thermometer's Tale

Fluctuations in temperature can cause paper to expand and contract, leading to physical stress on the binding and pages. Extreme heat can accelerate the chemical degradation of paper, making it brittle faster.

• Consistent Temperature: Store manga in a location with a stable temperature, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
• Avoid Extremes: Keep manga away from heat sources like radiators, direct sunlight, and electronics that generate heat. Also, avoid areas subject to freezing temperatures.
• Gradual Changes: If you must move manga between environments with different temperatures, allow them to acclimate gradually to prevent shock.

Physical Protection: Handling and Storage

Beyond environmental factors, the physical integrity of the manga itself needs to be considered.

Handling with Care

The way you handle your manga can significantly impact its condition:

• Clean Hands: Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling manga to prevent transferring oils and dirt.
• Support the Spine: When opening a manga volume, support the spine to avoid stressing the binding. Don't force it open flat if it resists.
• Avoid Bending/Creasing: Be mindful not to bend or crease the covers or pages.
• Use Bookmarks: Employ bookmarks instead of dog-earing pages, which causes permanent creases.

Storage Solutions

Choosing the right storage solutions can provide an extra layer of protection:

• Book Sleeves: Archival-quality, acid-free polypropylene or Mylar sleeves protect individual volumes from dust, minor spills, and handling.
• Book Boxes: For valuable or rare volumes, acid-free archival boxes offer excellent protection from light and environmental fluctuations.
• Shelving: Use sturdy bookshelves that can adequately support the weight of the manga. Avoid overcrowding shelves, which can cause damage and make it difficult to remove volumes without friction. Wooden shelves should be sealed with a water-based sealant to prevent acid migration from the wood.

Pest Control and Cleaning

Insects and other pests can damage paper, and dust buildup can detract from appearance and contribute to degradation.

• Inspect Regularly: Periodically check your manga for signs of insect activity (e.g., small holes, frass).
• Keep Area Clean: Maintain a clean storage area to discourage pests. Avoid storing food or drinks near your manga collection.
• Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft brush or a dry microfiber cloth to gently dust the covers and pages. For more stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used with extreme caution, ensuring the manga is completely dry afterward.

By implementing these practices, you can effectively preserve your manga collection, ensuring that these beloved stories remain in excellent condition for years to come, much like a well-preserved mummy endures through time.