Collections
Self-help
Here are a few hints to assist in the protection of books and other objects from some of their most destructive enemies. This advice should help to greatly prolong the lifespan of collections.
- Acid-free box
- Ensure the best possible environmental conditions regarding the temperature and humidity of storage areas. This should protect collections from mould growth and infestations.
- Place valuable books and other objects in archival quality boxes. This will create a more stable environment and offer protection from dust, light and mechanical damage.
- Don’t store valuable objects in attics. The conditions there can be very hot during the day and very cold during the night.
- To lessen the damaging effect of light, place heavy curtains or blinds on windows ensuring that they are closed when the room is not in use.
- Cotton gloves
- Locate drawings, paintings and bookshelves out of direct sunlight. Ensure also that they are not placed above radiators.
- Use incandescent light that does not contain UV rays. Low wattage bulbs and dimming switches can also be beneficial.
- Wear cotton gloves when handling photographs and rare books. This will protect objects from the damage caused by fatty acids released from fingers.
- Book cradle
- To protect objects from the effects of acidic gases (peroxides), seal wooden shelves with polyurethane varnish.
- Use a book cradle to support fragile volumes.
- Never use sello-tape to repair books (they become brittle and they stain). There are archival quality mending tapes on the market.
- Leather dressing has gone out of fashion. It appears to be doing more harm than good, and the latest advice is not to use it on leather volumes.
