What technique should be used as quickly as possible for books saturated with clean water?

The technique of freezing or drying books saturated with clean water is crucial for several reasons. When books become wet, the water can cause significant damage, including mold growth, warping, and the loss of inks or dyes. Freezing the books prevents these detrimental effects by halting the degradation process, preserving the integrity of the materials until proper drying can take place.

This method allows for the safe preservation of books until they can be professionally cleaned or dried, often using techniques that minimize physical stress on the paper and binding. In contrast, simply cleaning or wiping the books can lead to further damage, while letting them air dry can increase the risk of mold and mildew due to prolonged exposure to moisture. Storing wet books in a dry place without further intervention does not address the water issue and allows the potential for continued deterioration. Therefore, freezing or drying is the most effective approach to protect and restore books affected by clean water saturation.