The unmistakable aroma of old books is often associated with nostalgia, intellectual curiosity, and literary romance. While the smell of books may seem like a mystery, scientists have discovered that it’s not just the pages, but rather the compound lignin that gives books their distinctive scent.
Lignin is a complex organic polymer that provides structural support in the cell walls of many plants. In paper, lignin is present in the wood fibers used to make pulp, which is then used to make paper. When books are printed, the lignin begins to break down over time, releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. The VOCs produce the distinct odor that we associate with old books.
Interestingly, lignin is closely related to vanillin, the compound responsible for the familiar aroma of vanilla. As lignin degrades, it releases a faint vanilla scent that contributes to the overall aroma of old books. In fact, some researchers have found that the older the book, the stronger the vanilla-like scent.
It’s worth noting that not all old books smell the same. The specific scent of an old book can vary depending on factors such as the age of the book, the type of paper used, the ink used, and even the storage conditions. However, the underlying compound responsible for the smell is lignin.
Despite the musty smell, old books continue to be cherished by many as artifacts of the past, containing a wealth of knowledge and history that cannot be found anywhere else. The scent of old books serves as a reminder of the value of literature and the joy of discovery that can be found within their pages.