Rare or tightly bound books should be laid open on a book support available in the Petherick Reading Room. Never lean on books or documents for a writing surface. Use pencil when you are working with library materials. If pages of books and other items must be marked use acid-free paper strips available from Preservation Services. Photocopying Photocopying is one of the major causes of damage to library books.
Some materials are difficult to handle and copy safely.
Most importantly, don't press down on the spine of books while photocopying and take extra care with large and heavy books. There are some types of materials which are so fragile they should not be photocopied at all. If you have to move more items than can be held comfortably in one hand, use a trolley. Never overload a trolley. Make two trips.