It can be really devastating when it happens to you. The thought of your valuable paper, be it important documents, irreplaceable personal letters or treasured books being destroyed forever by water damage. But with care and the proper technique these items may be salvageable from that flood or spill after all.
Turning the item upside down every couple of hours will help the water damaged book restoration process dry out evenly. If the documents are important, the best way to preserve their contents may be to photocopy them then discard the originals.
Rare book water damage is more likely to be a concern of libraries and some museums as these organizations are home to the most valuable, important pieces of literary history. However, many collectors also have rare books that they need to protect from water damage. When disaster does strike, it is the discretion of the homeowner to salvage or replace the damaged items. Carefully remove the documents from the water and gently rinse them underneath cold running water. If you have any questions or suggestions let me know.