By the same token, stick a print in an ikea frame with non protective glass, it's just a picture? Just saying

For valuable ones, archival dustwrapper protector and shelve out of direct sunlight (of course), behind glass (if you want to see them) or in a cupboard if you only want to bring them out and look at them from time to time.

I agree that books are for reading, but handle the valuable ones carefully.....

Displayed and dust proof.. but not readable.. doh

The problem with modern firsts is that the condition of the dustwrapper makes a huge contribution to any value they have, and the cheap paper on which many are printed is prone to browning on light exposure - hence the need to protect and store carefully. For old leather bindings I agree that they can be shelved beside other books and often only improve with age and a bit of handling. Much like myself, now that I think about it.....

It's a lot easier if you read them first Graham  ... before framing ... still nice though 

Clever bugger!