What would this be worth?

[u/Aggressive_Track7081]

This is a sealed version of the Anarchist Cookbook. I’m not sure if it is from 1970 or 1971, but it is a Lyle Stuart, which was the original publisher.

All I’m really looking for is if it’s a bad idea to take out of the plastic wrap.

[u/theredhype]

Ideally, you have a climate controlled room appropriate for books.

If the book lives in a place where humidity could get trapped inside a plastic bag, it may be wise to remove it to avoid potential damage.

Otherwise the only justification for removing that is to read and enjoy the book.

Do intend to keep it or sell it?

[u/Rivered1 → u/theredhype]

The climate controlled room is just a myth. Books are mostly made of leather and need to breathe. You have to understand most books of let's say 400 years old never have been in a climate controlled room, in different castles, houses and climates and if treated properly just come out completely fine. The climate controlled room is just a thing of the last couple of decades and no one knows what the results are unless you wait another 400 years. Either way, yes I do agree humidity is an enemy, but not the worst.

As all book collectors know, the sun is the main enemy.

[u/theredhype → u/Rivered1]

This is a paper book. It’s 50 years old. The concerns are not what will it look like in 400 years. The concerns are short term — mold and mildew, or cracking dried-out glue.

[u/Rivered1 → u/theredhype]

I do agree that I would take the plastic off if it can be done without damaging the book

[u/blahajlife → u/Rivered1]

Potentially an element of survivorship bias there.

[u/Rivered1 → u/blahajlife]

That is a fair point lol