How to get the musty smell out of old books?

Question

My grandparents have tons and tons of good books in their basement that have been down there for like ever! They are so old now that they have this disgusting musty smell that prevents us from reading the books. Is there anyway to remove that smell?

Answer 1

I shook baby powder in mine and it worked very well.  

Answer 2

Here is a good trick that actually works.  You need to get a large barrel or box with a lid (clean plastic or metal trash bins or storage bins work well).  Put your books in, but don't crowd (you may have to work in batches).  Then you can put either kitty litter or charcoal briquettes in the spaces, close up the lid, and leave it for about a week.  When you open the box/bin, the books will no longer smell musty.  If you have to work in batches, you can just re-use the charcoal or kitty litter--it will still work.