[ Ref. 110818 MMDigest, "Piano Roll Box Explodes in Microwave Oven"

Add piano roll boxes to the list of things you should never put in the
microwave!  I sell used books and sheet music and when I receive stock,
I often have to remove old price stickers or other old labels glued to
the book.  

Here's a label removal trick that I learned from other booksellers --
use a hair dryer to soften up the glue on the label.  The low setting
works best, just enough heat without a lot of wind.  Direct the hair
dryer to a corner of the label and wait about 10-15 seconds.  Most
glues start to soften by that time.

I then use a dull paring knife to start peeling off the label.  Be
patient.  If you try to remove the label too soon before the glue has
softened, the label will tear.

After removing the label, the next thing is remove any glue residue.
Some people use Goo-Gone, but I prefer Ronsonol(R).  In the past,
I've used cotton balls to apply the solution but the fibers start to
break apart and stick to the surface.  I now use makeup remover pads
which don't seem to break up as easily.  Apply the remover sparingly,
you don't need to get the cotton ball or pad sopping wet.  You may
want to try a test area before applying the remover because the solution
may remove some of the color or printing from the vintage roll label or
book.

I've removed hundreds of old labels over the years and have found these
methods work best.  John, good luck with your label removal -- and I
support your wife's microwave embargo.  ;-)

Joyce Brite
Player Piano and Mechanical Music Exchange
http://www.mmdigest.com/Exchange/