Why Old Books Smell So Good

Old books smell, well, delightful. They are considered one of the most recognizable scents in the world. But, have you ever wondered why they smell so good? The SciShow has created a Youtube video that just might answer that question.

“Older books have paper that contains a lot more cellulose and lignin, which come from the paper’s original source: trees. These chemicals degrade and release VOCs, releasing scents that remind us of almonds, vanilla and flowers,” said the creators in an interview with Tech Times.

The Compound Interest chemistry blog has created an infographic called, “The Aroma of Books.”