Question: I have been blessed with a very old book collection. I decided to use these books to get new books since they just sit decorating my shelves. The are books fro the 20', 30's 40's, 50's and 60's etc. Obviously they have dust and that yellow book moldy look and smell. other than slightly dusting them, I just leave them to survive. Recently one of my books was requested. A Hand Ful of Dust, Published in the 70's. It has been in my life and on my shelf since then. It had no rips or tares but it was yellow at the edges and had that dusty moldy smell that old book have. Should Ihave not posted and mailed that book? Please tell me before I move forward with my membership. Thank you in advance. kp

Many older books will have that "old book" smell and yellowed pages.  IMO, as long as the book meets the posting criteria, it should be okay to post. 

I agree - as long as it meets PBS guidelines.  Anyone receiving the book must understand the book is old and will probably will have foxing and  a musty smell.  I know as many that agree will disagree with this comment - if you are uncomfortable that the natural aging of the book will be accepted -- PM the requestor

Thank you for requesting my book___________.   This book meets PBS Guidlines but it is a old book and has discoloration and a musty smell.  Before sending the book that has been with me for my lifetime, I want to make sure of your expectations. Thanks

That is your choice if you PM the sender.  I like knowing than fretting and I know some members say it meets guidlines send it....but if it has been with you for your lifetime - there is attachment.  Good Luck

edited for wording

"Yellowed with age" does not equal "stained"

and "old book smell" does not equal "mold"

so, I would think you're fine as long as you meet all the other specifications. And as Jubead said, you can always send the requestor a PM before sending.

I agree that there shouln't be a problem with those books- but if you do decide to pm someone before sending out their order be aware that they may not answer before the deadline. Then you are facing a whole other dilemna- to still send anyway or to cancel onthe chance they wouldn't want it.    I would NOT PM   just send it on its way.

You also might consider picking the last date to send, and set the book on end, fanned open as much as possible, to let it air out for the couple days before sending it. This will help that old book smell a lot. Do go ahead and print the wrapper so that they don't get concerned and cancel on you. I always pick the last date available, and print the wrapper right away, then if I mail early so much the better for them, but if I need the full 5 days, so much the better for me.