Bookstores need a way of communicating price with customers and typically use sticker labels to do this. The adhesive on these labels can often be difficult and unsatisfying to remove if the wrong labels are used. To remove labels and sticky adhesive, there are a few methods. Please note: it depends heavily on the porosity of your book cover. 

Here is how to remove stickers from books:

Method 1: Friction/ Manual labour

On non-delicate covers, Test in a small area first to ensure colour or cover material doesn't come away. 

Manually pick as much of the label off as possible. If not prone to scratching, you can use a scraper on the cover to gently remove the adhesive.

Plastic scrapers/putty knives are the least likely to leave indentations on your books. Choose a size of scraper that is slightly larger in height/width to the shortest edge of your label. Try this out on a small section of your book first. 

Another option is using a rubber eraser on the remaining adhesive. The adhesive will rub away on the eraser crumbs/material. Caution: Some porous paper cardboard covers may pill away using this method or eraser might remove colour. Test in small areas first. 

Method 2: The reverse stick

If sticker giveth, sticker can taketh away. Use a sticker or piece of tape to gently dab or use like a wax strip. The old adhesive sticks to the new adhesive and is removed in a clean and satisfying way. This is one of the most gentle methods to remove adhesive. 

Method 3: Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl Alcohol is one of the best products to use for cleaning items that are vulnerable to moisture and is used for cleaning Electronics and books due to its fast evaporation. It breaks down inks, adhesives, oils, polishes. Test in a small area first. This can be applied using a good old fashioned finger. lightly agitate and let sit for 30 seconds to a minute or until the adhesive turns to goo. Scrape or rub off the adhesive goo  Using a cloth or cotton bud to apply may cause cloth fluff to stick to the adhesive. A cloth can be used at the end to wipe away the goo. 

Method 4: Adhesive removal spray

If all else fails, use an adhesive removal spray e.g. goo gone, De-solv-it. Apply a small amount to a cotton bud or cloth. Lightly dab on the adhesive. Wait until the adhesive has turned to goo (approx 30 seconds. Products may vary). Wipe or scrape away the goo.  Caution: This product is oil based. You will need to use isopropyl alcohol or other mild cleaning agent afterwards to remove oil sheen from cover. Do not use on porous covers or it may create a permanent oil mark.  

Do not use:

• Water - Accidents happen. It doesn't do anything for removing adhesive, unless the label is porous. It's not worth the risk of water damaging your book.
• Baby oil, other oil. Not worth the risk of oil damaging the pages and not as effective as the other methods.