THIS thought came to mind when I smelled the latest book I bought. It had the same scent as my Sweet Dreams books from grade school and prompted me to ask my brother if each publisher or the paper they use has a distinct smell.
This curiosity led me to do some light research. As it turns out, new books have the same smell. It could be because they use the same kind of paper, ink, and other materials.
Let’s dive into the research basics I’ve uncovered.
The Paper Used. Primarily, paper is from wood pulp. The components of wood pulp break down over time, giving off a lovely, bookish smell. It seems bookish is not limited to character description.
The Ink. Different inks have distinct chemical compositions contributing to their overall smell. It’s not only wine that ages well; books also age gracefully. Older books often have a sweet, vanilla-like scent, while new books smell fresh.
Adhesives or Binding Materials. These also contribute to the smell. They vary depending on the glue used. Either synthetic, animal glue or hot-melt adhesives, each with distinct aromas. Although, I have yet to discover this scent.
Environmental Factors. Storage conditions, humidity, and temperature play a role. Just like coffee, books absorb various scents or aromas from their surroundings. Odors from smoke, mold, or even other books all contribute. High humidity and temperature can accelerate the degradation of ink and paper, leading to a pungent or even different smell.
Still, this thought kept nagging me. Why do books smell so good? I find its smell nostalgic. It brings back memories and takes you back to when you first read that book or an emotion tied to it.
Entering a library brings back childhood memories of browsing through shelves and that forgotten library card. I recall our LCGS library even had a mat where you could lie on the floor and browse those pop-up books. I love those books!
At home, we also have shelves of books—from encyclopedias to novels. Mama even bought medical books and art books. And, of course, we have distinct types of dictionaries. In Lagonglong, our home was once a go-to place for students to research. That was in the 70s and 80s when town libraries were not that equipped.
Bookstores are different. If you enter a bookstore specializing in new books, a fresh book smell greets you. It’s a refreshing, industrial kind of smell. Entering a vintage bookstore is different. A musty and comforting smell envelops you. That takes you back to leisurely, rain-soaked afternoons. Bookstores are a haven for us.
Next time you pick up a book, take a moment to savor its scent. It’s more than just paper and ink; it’s a portal to memories and emotions.
Let’s keep the love for books alive, one sniff at a time. I call it the nostalgic aroma of literature.