Is this mold? 3 3

[LowGradeBronze]

I take the view that all my books, even the low grade ones (50%) will outlast me. I only repair when it risks being two or three separate items in my hand when I slide it out the bag. Its only original once and I try and maintain originality until it stops me enjoying handling the book. 

[The Lions Den]

On 12/8/2023 at 3:33 AM, stormflora said:

Here are photos of another issue:

And here is another issue:

My concern would be that as the staples degrade, they continue to adversely affect the paper. It would also indicate the books haven't been stored properly, which could cause other problems as time goes on. Following proper storage procedures should help, and following Joe's advice would be prudent as well...  

[joeypost]

On 12/9/2023 at 3:33 PM, The Lions Den said:

My concern would be that as the staples degrade, they continue to adversely affect the paper. It would also indicate the books haven't been stored properly, which could cause other problems as time goes on. Following proper storage procedures should help, and following Joe's advice would be prudent as well...  

There are commercial chemicals available to remove rust, but I am sure they would do much more damage to the paper’s integrity if used on comics. I may have to do a long term study on their affects.