Some of the "200 year old books" were donated to libraries, and the previous owner made the notations in the books prior to donating them. My point is: If I OWN the book and want to make notes in it, I will. I will NOT, however, make notes in a book that does not belong to me. << I hate to say this but!!!!!!, some people ink out or correct things on original documents, or even make notes updating them. its very disconcerting to see a 200 year old book, defaced. My archives(tennessee) allows only number 2 pencils, in their document, and map areas. >>