While the textbook's pages are still damp, blow a fan in the room to increase air circulation. Blot any remaining water from the pages with paper towels or a soft terry cloth. Stand the book on its edge to prevent the pages from sticking together as it dries.
If the damaged textbook is only slightly damp, use absorbent paper to remove moisture from the book's pages. The National Library of Australia recommends interleaving absorbent paper every 10 pages for optimum results. Avoid placing absorbent paper between every page of the book, as this can permanently damage the spine of the book. Change the absorbent paper every hour until the book is dry.
If the textbook's pages are dry, lay the book flat on a table or solid surface. Use a heavy weight to press the book's pages together. Leave at least 1/2 inch between the spine of the book and the weight to prevent damage to the spine. Avoid placing the textbook in direct sunlight, as this can yellow the pages.