When using this vinyl record, make sure your record player is clean and in good working order. Gently place the record on the turntable and use the tonearm to lower the needle onto the record. To keep it in good shape, always handle the record by the edges to avoid fingerprints and scratches. After use, put the record back in its sleeve carefully. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the cover has the 1 - inch split bothering you, you can use some archival - quality tape to repair it gently, but be careful not to damage the cover further.